GAA, LGFA and Camogie Clubs are now invited to apply to Phase 3 of the GAA Green Club Programme. The programme which was established in 2020 is designed to support Gaelic Games clubs in taking simple and effective sustainability actions in their grounds and activities. The Programme is structured around the themes of Energy, Water, Waste, Biodiversity and Travel & Transport and is resourced with an online toolkit produced in partnership with local authorities and expert partners, including the Sustainable energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), the Local Authorities Water Programme (LAWPRo) and the Regional Waste Authorities. The toolkit is available at https://learning.gaa.ie/GreenClub and includes numerous case studies of Clubs who have successfully implemented actions, improving their facilities and reducing their impact on the environment.
Clubs who completed Phase 2 were recently presented with their awards at a ceremony in Croke Park where Uachtarán CLG Jarlath Burns described how Green Clubs are reinforcing the GAA’s social leadership, improving club facilities, and helping ensure a better future for their communities. “The breadth of initiatives being celebrated here, speaks volumes about the innovative and community-focused spirit of our clubs. The diversity of these projects demonstrates how clubs are finding creative ways to address local challenges while contributing to a national movement.”
The event was also attended by guest speaker Dr Aoibhinn Ní Shúilleabháin who spoke of the positive legacy Green Clubs are creating for future generations.
The GAA, LGFA and Camogie Associations are now inviting new clubs to apply to become Green Clubs. Applications are open from now until January 26th for the next round of the Green Club programme.
Interested clubs can apply at: https://greenclubs.gaa.ie/ .
Successful clubs will be guided through a series of steps over 2025 and 2026, supported to access funding, plan, implement and report on initiatives.
You can also contact Gerry McGovern, Leitrim GAA Safety and Facilities Officer, for more information.
Aoibhinn Ní Shuilleabháin pictured addressing the attendees during the GAA Green Club Event at Croke Park in Dublin. Photo by Stephen Marken/Sportsfile.
https://www.leitrimgaa.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Gen-WebNews-Green-Club-660x350-1.png350660adminhttp://www.leitrimgaa.ie/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/cropped-Leitrim_Crest_3d_Trans_552x552-180x180.pngadmin2025-01-04 19:00:492025-01-02 10:12:43Clubs are now invited to apply to Phase 3 of the GAA Green Club Programme
There was some great action served up in the Handball Juvenile Christmas League – Round 2 qualifiers and B-Plate matches in Fenagh earlier this evening.
Quarter final pairings in the A competition are now decided with Mark, Ruairi, Eoin and Gary progressing to contest Sophie, Daniel, Maxim and Peter for places in the semi-finals later this weekend.
Well done also to Joe and Padraig who played a very entertaining curtain raiser in the B-Plate competition this evening.
Weather permitting, next round of matches are pencilled in for Sunday and Monday evening next.
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Original News Item:
The Leitrim Handball Juvenile Christmas League reaches knockout stages this weekend in Fenagh, and competition is sure to heat up with some very exciting 2nd round and quarter final fixtures down for decision.
First game at 5pm this evening.
Good Luck to all competing.
https://www.leitrimgaa.ie/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Handball-WebNews-3-660x350.png350660adminhttp://www.leitrimgaa.ie/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/cropped-Leitrim_Crest_3d_Trans_552x552-180x180.pngadmin2025-01-03 13:00:142025-01-04 10:09:58Leitrim Handball Juvenile Christmas League reaches knockout stages
Our 50 Miles Challenge might be on pause for the moment but you can still get the steps in this January !
The Irish Life GAA Healthy Clubs Every Step Counts Challenge 2025 invites club and community members nationwide to get active, connect with their community and support their GAA club for 5 weeks, starting 8th January 2025.
· Irish Life’s Health of the Nation Report 2024 has found that as a population we’re becoming less active and feeling more isolated..
· The Irish Life GAA Healthy Clubs Every Step Counts Challenge 2024, which was facilitated on the MyLife app, recorded an increase of one million steps vs 2023 challenge
· 970 GAA clubs registered for the challenge in 2024, an increase of 181 clubs from 2023, with 125 from Connacht, 317 from Leinster, 268 from Munster and 263 from Ulster
The Irish Life GAA Healthy Clubs Every Step Counts Challenge, is back for a sixth year. The aim of the challenge is to create a healthier Ireland by encouraging people from all over the country to join together through their local GAA Club and get out walking over a five-week period. The challenge, which runs from the 8th January 2025 to 12th February 2025, is a country-wide initiative in partnership with Ireland Lights Up* and will be hosted on Irish Life’s health and wellbeing app, MyLife, allowing users to record and track their efforts and steps.
Findings from Irish Life’s 2024 Health of the Nation Report shows that 60% of Irish adults are now overweight or obese, with over 3 in 5 adults under 35 also reporting feelings of loneliness and isolation. Encouraging participation to combat these health issues, the Irish Life GAA Healthy Clubs Every Step Counts Challenge sees users partake in an organised walk around their local GAA facilities each week, fostering healthy habits and greater community engagement.
During the 2024 Irish Life GAA Healthy Clubs Every Step Counts Challenge, the campaign saw participation surge to an all-time high of 40,000, an increase of 10,000 people from 2023. Most notably, a promising uplift in new joiners in the 18-39 age category were seen, showcasing the efforts of this age group to improve their health and build connections. Together participants walked over 6.6 million kilometres throughout the 2024 campaign, an increase of one million kilometres completed from 2023.
The challenge offers the chance to win a share of €30,000 in GAA club funding from Irish Life. Each GAA Club that surpasses the 4,000-kilometre goal of collective steps recorded by their participants are entered into a draw to win one of three €2,500 donations towards club funding, across each province. The challenge was initially launched during lockdown to help people across Ireland get active and provide a social connection to others in their communities. Since 2021 the challenge has continued to evolve, with 970 clubs taking part in 2024 – a testament to the Irish Life GAA Healthy Clubs Programme commitment to improve health and wellbeing in communities across Ireland.
Claire Myers of Round Towers GAA, Lusk, Co. Dublin said of their club’s experience: “Each Monday we organised a walk around our GAA facility fields, followed by tea/coffee and biscuits in the club, and we often found the children were encouraging their parents to bring them along too. It was
fun checking the app to see our individual steps and ranking in the club, but more importantly, how easy it was to monitor how our club’s steps total was progressing compared to other clubs in Leinster.
“The Irish Life GAA Healthy Clubs Every Step Counts Challenge is a great initiative and it encouraged a lot of people to come out and walk. I received a lot of positive feedback from our members, saying it got them out and some of them are going to continue their Monday group walks, which is a very positive outcome. We’ll be back next year.”
Kate Casey, Head of Wellbeing Propositions at Irish Life commented “Our recent Irish Life 2024 Health of the Nation Report highlighted a concerning decline in physical activity and increased feelings of isolation, especially among those under 35. However, the consistent rise in participation in our Every Step Counts Challenge over the past 5 years demonstrates the importance of creating the opportunity for people to take part in physical activity, fostering a healthier and more connected community. The Irish Life GAA Healthy Clubs Programme, club officers and volunteers play a pivotal role in promoting health and wellbeing for communities all over Ireland and Irish Life are delighted to support this initiative through the MyLife app.”
Colin Regan, GAA Community and Health Manager said: “The Steps Challenge epitomises what the Irish Life GAA Healthy Clubs Programme is all about: it enables our inspirational club volunteers to put in place a health-enhancing intervention that benefits tens of thousands of people, while placing their club at the heart of their community. It brings to life the GAA motto ‘Where We All Belong’.”
The Irish Life GAA Healthy Clubs Programme delivers health and wellbeing benefits worth €50M to Ireland, an independent Social Return on Investment (SROI) evaluation completed by Just Economics in 2023 confirms. The research highlighted the significant health and wellbeing gains for participants, including increases in physical activity and adopting of healthier behaviours.
As the initiative continues to gain momentum, Irish Life’s ambition is to grow the Every Step Counts Challenge to support communities becoming active through a fun and collaborative programme. The five-week challenge is not only an enjoyable way to get active within the community but can help participants track measurable improvements to their overall health through Irish Life’s MyLife App.
The 2024 winners of the Irish Life GAA Healthy Clubs Every Step Counts Challenge were:
The Club Leadership Development Programme (CLDP) provides learning opportunities for new and existing Club Officers in GAA, LGFA and Camogie Association Clubs to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to fulfil their roles. It focuses on the practical aspects of the primary roles on a Club Executive.
Familiarise yourself with the key knowledge and skills needed to get started in your Club Officer role. Connacht Council will provide of role-specific webinars for Chairpersons, Secretaries, Treasurers, PROs and Coaching Officers onWednesday8th January.
All webinars will last for approximately 90 minutes and will be delivered in an interactive way by experienced facilitators.
Some webinars are available for other roles, so please refer to the events calendar for more information.
https://www.leitrimgaa.ie/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2025-Web-Club-Officer-Training.png350660adminhttp://www.leitrimgaa.ie/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/cropped-Leitrim_Crest_3d_Trans_552x552-180x180.pngadmin2025-01-01 20:32:562025-01-01 20:32:56Club Officer Training 2024/25 – Webinar date is 8th January
We would like to take this opportunity to wish our players, clubs, mentors, officials, administrators, supporters and sponsors a Happy Christmas and a wonderful New Year for 2025.
Beannachtaí na Nollaig agus Athbhlíaín faoi shéan is faoi mhaise daoibh go léir
..
https://www.leitrimgaa.ie/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2024-Christmas-WEB-660-x-350.png350660adminhttp://www.leitrimgaa.ie/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/cropped-Leitrim_Crest_3d_Trans_552x552-180x180.pngadmin2024-12-23 19:00:432024-12-23 19:09:46Happy Christmas and have a wonderful New Year for 2025
The Allianz National League fixtures have been released live on the GAA Competitions System and as a result the feed is now available on our County page
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The Football Fixtures are – ALLIANZ NFL DIVISION 3
Rd 1 – Sat, 25-Jan – Leitrim v Laois
in Páirc Seán Uí Eslín, Ballinamore at 2:30pm
Rd 2 – Sun, 02-Feb – Clare v Leitrim
in Cusack Park, Ennis at 2:00pm
Rd 3 – Sun, 16-Feb – Leitrim v Kildare
in Páirc Seán Uí Eslín, Ballinamore at 2:00pm
Rd 4 – Sat, 22-Feb – Antrim v Leitrim
in Corrigan Park, Belfast at 2:30pm
Rd 5 – Sun, 02-Mar – Leitrim v Offaly
in Páirc Seán Uí Eslín, Ballinamore at 2:00pm
Rd 6 – Sun, 16-Mar – Leitrim v Fermanagh
in Páirc Seán Uí Eslín, Ballinamore at 2:00pm
Rd 7 – Sun, 23-Mar – Sligo v Leitrim
in Markievicz Park at 2:00pm
March 29-30: Final
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The Hurling Fixtures are – ALLIANZ NHL DIVISION 4
Rd 1 – Sat, 25-Jan – Lancashire v Leitrim
in Abbottstown at 2:00pm
Rd 2 – Sun, 02-Feb – Leitrim – BYE
Rd 3 – Sat, 08-Feb – Leitrim v Longford
in Shane McGettigan Park, Drumshanbo at 2:00pm
Rd 4 – Sun, 23-Feb – Louth v Leitrim
in Páirc Naomh Bríd, Dowdallshill at 1:15pm
Rd 5 – Sat, 01-Mar – Leitrim v Monaghan
in Shane McGettigan Park, Drumshanbo at 2:00pm
Rd 6 – Sat, 08-Mar – Fermanagh v Leitrim
in Brewster Park at 2:00pm
Rd 7 – Sat, 22-Mar – Leitrim v Warwickshire
in Shane McGettigan Park, Drumshanbo at 2:00pm
March 29-30: Final
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The 2025 Connacht fixtures have been confirmed and the list in full, which contains County & Club fixtures, is available here on Connacht website. (Only some competition feeds are available live on our website at the moment and will be updated as they are released)
This list includes the Connacht Clubs fixtures and whilst November 2025 is 11 months away it is worth noting that in all 3 of the AIB Club Senior, Intermediate and Junior Championships the Leitrim Teams are drawn in the semi-finals and avoid quarter final games.
Senior: Leitrim Champions v [Galway or Sligo] Intermediate: Leitrim Champions v Roscommon Junior: Leitrim Champions v Galway
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https://www.leitrimgaa.ie/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Gen-WebNews-1-660x350.png350660adminhttp://www.leitrimgaa.ie/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/cropped-Leitrim_Crest_3d_Trans_552x552-180x180.pngadmin2024-12-19 10:00:022024-12-29 17:28:152025 Fixtures – Allianz League & Connacht
Anne & the Carroll Family, Cavan Town, wish to convey our sincere appreciation to the people of Leitrim especially the GAA fraternity for your kindness and support following PJ’s recent death in late October.
To all who called to the house, attended the funeral, sent mass cards, messages and letters of condolences we deeply appreciate your expression of sympathy. The wonderful stories and memories you shared will continue to give us great comfort into the future.
Anne, Olivia, Anne Marie, Caroline and Pauric Carroll.
https://www.leitrimgaa.ie/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/ILEO_PJ_Carroll-1730310545053-scaled.jpg11071500Secretary Leitrim GAAhttp://www.leitrimgaa.ie/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/cropped-Leitrim_Crest_3d_Trans_552x552-180x180.pngSecretary Leitrim GAA2024-12-16 20:35:192024-12-16 20:35:19Acknowledgement from the family of the late PJ Carroll, Cavan.
During the recent soft launch of our Quid Games event we heard from Justin Fannon from Leitrim County Council (who support initiatives by Leitrim LGFA & GAA) about a big event coming up in May and we are delighted to assist them in promoting The Leitrim Gathering to the Leitrim Diaspora far and wide.
‘The Leitrim Gathering’ – 23rd – 25th May 2025
Connect, Celebrate, Share – The Leitrim Gathering offers a full weekend of events for all the family.
The countdown is on, and preparations are well underway for an exciting, fun filled weekend of celebrations for ‘The Leitrim Gathering’. An event for Leitrim people all over the world, ‘The Leitrim Gathering’ is a celebration of everything great about our County.
‘The Leitrim Gathering’ allows Leitrim people worldwide to connect and celebrate place, culture and heritage. Leitrim people living abroad, who are not in a position to return home for this special weekend, are encouraged to organise events wherever they are in the world and join in celebrating our Leitrim heritage. To those who can attend ‘The Leitrim Gathering’ in person, whether you now reside outside of the county, or currently live in Leitrim or have made Leitrim your new home, a warm welcome awaits you at the many events.
The response to ‘The Leitrim Gathering’ has been phenomenal, with over 40 events organised to date. Community groups from all over County Leitrim have responded to the call and have
planned a series of original, energising and animating events. The final programme is currently being developed but rest assured, there is a range of exciting and varied events taking place to interest all the family. Events are planned throughout the county, giving you the opportunity to visit north, south, east and west and immerse yourself in the natural, unspoilt landscape that makes Leitrim so special.
Scheduled from 23rd to 25th May 2025, ‘The Leitrim Gathering’ is a weekend for all the family, with a series of literary, cultural and heritage, music and dance events arranged.
Check out social media on #LeitrimGathering and www.theleitrimgathering.com for further updates over the coming weeks and months. Help us make ‘The Leitrim Gathering’ a truly special occasion. Don’t forget to spread the word about this exciting event! Encourage those living overseas to consider booking a trip to Lovely Leitrim to coincide with the event or alternatively, if they are not in a position to attend the event in person, encourage them to organise an event wherever they reside to celebrate their Leitrim Heritage and they can share the fun via social media!
Visit theleitrimgathering.com for further information and check out an exciting competition for someone abroad to win return flights to Leitrim and 7 nights’ accommodation for ‘The Leitrim Gathering’.
Over the past four years, Leitrim GAA has run a very successful fundraising campaign the 50-Mile Challenge and we were delighted to be joined by Leitrim LGFA for the last two of these, adding a bounce and an energy to the month of January each year.
We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who supported and took part — it proved a vital source of funding for our activities over the past four years. In 2024 we achieved promotion to Allianz League Division 3, captured the Andrew O’Neill Cup as All-Ireland C Hurling Champions and our U16 Footballers brought home the Fr. Manning Cup for the first time since 1990. In addition to this, there were much improved performances from all of our representative teams from U20 down through the Academies. The 50 Mile Challenge campaign which was supported locally and nationally, as well as in some 70 different locations worldwide, raised over €500,000 over its four-year term. We are so grateful to all those who took part. There was a sense of belonging that we hope to hold onto as we head into a new campaign in 2025.
This coming year, while we will press pause on the 50-Mile Challenge, we are thrilled to introduce a new initiative: The Quid Games. This exciting event will take place on March 16th, and we’re counting on your support once again. The Quid Games is a joint venture between Leitrim GAA and Leitrim LGFA, and promises to be a fun and engaging event for all.
To kick things off, we hosted a soft launch event in Carrick Business Campus on December 12th, where we had an online chat hosted by Declan Bohan, Secretary of Leitrim GAA and Kathy Butler, Chairperson Leitrim LGFA. We heard from Justin Fannon, from Leitrim County Council, who are delighted to support initiatives by Leitrim LGFA & GAA, particularly those reaching the Leitrim Diaspora. With a gathering event due to happen in May of 2025 (23rd to 25th), there is excitement building with a weekend of homecoming celebration planned – for more information see theleitrimgathering.com
Declan went on to chat with Leitrim Ladies stalwart Claire Owens and one of Leitrim GAA’s young guns Donal Casey about their significant achievements this year and thoughts for the upcoming season. Check out the Facebook pages of Leitrim GAA or LGFA part 1 / part 2 for a recording!
Both players expressed their gratitude to the respective county boards for the support they receive which they do not underestimate, and without sponsorship and fundraising there quite simply would be no county teams. Clare stressed the importance of continued support to ensure a future for the teams with so much talent coming through and with some of the highest per capita rates of participation in Gaelic games in the country, we need to nurture our emerging talent. Donal spoke about the commitment required to play football for Leitrim. With most young people studying some distance from home, commuting for training and games can be challenging so financial support is really vital.
The night finished up with words of thanks from both players and they expressed their ambitions for 2025 – to once again do the people of Leitrim proud.
There will be an official launch in January, in the meantime if you or your company would like to get involved—whether by participating, sponsoring a team, or sponsoring a competition—please don’t hesitate to contact us. Your continued support is invaluable, and together we can make this initiative a huge success.
We look forward to your participation in The Quid Games and thank you for your ongoing commitment to our community.
Armagh native Paddy Morrison has joined the incoming Leitrim GAA Senior Team as Goalkeeper Coach. Paddy is the son of former Leitrim coach, the late great John Morrison.
Paddy comes with a wealth of experience and quality having been Kilcoo’s Goalkeeping Coach when they won the All-Ireland Club title.
Paddy has also intercounty experience with a number of counties including Monaghan Under 20s and Armagh Seniors and will most certainly help develop and improve our fantastic young goalkeepers..
Gaelic Armour is delighted to unveil a landmark three-year partnership with Leitrim GAA, becoming the official kit manufacturer for all Leitrim GAA county teams. This innovative profit-sharing agreement represents a significant milestone for both organisations, celebrating a shared commitment to excellence, innovation, and the rich Gaelic Games heritage of County Leitrim.
Under this exciting agreement, Gaelic Armour will supply Leitrim GAA teams with state-of-the-art playing kits, training gear, and supporter merchandise. All kits, including replica jerseys, will be proudly designed and manufactured in Ireland, ensuring superior quality while reflecting the unique identity and culture of Leitrim.
Commenting on the partnership, Billy Hayes, Managing Director of Gaelic Armour, said:
“We are thrilled to partner with Leitrim GAA. While it may be considered a small county in terms of population, it is a big county in terms of passion, pride, and love for Gaelic Games. At Gaelic Armour, we are dedicated to designing products that not only deliver peak performance but also honour the traditions and heritage of Leitrim players and supporters. We look forward to an exciting journey together over the next three years.”
The collaboration launches with the unveiling of the new Leitrim GAA jersey, inspired by the iconic Pól an Eas waterfall. This unique design pays homage to Leitrim’s stunning natural beauty and resilient spirit, while incorporating Gaelic Armour’s innovative fabric technology to enhance player performance.
Leitrim GAA Chairperson, Enda Stenson, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership:
“This agreement with Gaelic Armour marks an exciting new chapter for Leitrim GAA. It brings a strong commercial incentive for both parties, and their commitment to Irish manufacturing aligns perfectly with our values. We’re proud to see our players and supporters wear jerseys that capture the essence of our county while enhancing performance on the pitch.”
Fans can look forward to an exclusive launch event for the new jersey, alongside a full range of supporter merchandise available in stores and online.
This partnership underscores Gaelic Armour’s ongoing mission to support grassroots and elite Gaelic Games, fostering pride, passion, and performance across Ireland.
About Gaelic Armour
Gaelic Armour is an innovative Irish sportswear brand, specialising in high-performance gear for Gaelic Games. Known for its cutting-edge designs and sustainable practices, Gaelic Armour is dedicated to supporting players and communities with premium products that celebrate the history and heritage of the GAA.
Link to Gaelic Armour Online Retail store which will open on Friday, 22 Nov, at 8am:
It is with a mixture of great sadness and very fond memories that we learned earlier today of the passing of the late PJ Carroll of Cootehill Road, Cavan Town. PJ was an inspirational figure no matter where he travelled in his many coaching and managerial roles throughout a host of counties and clubs and across a number of decades. He left a lasting legacy no matter where he found himself.
Of course, in Leitrim, we have very many fond memories of the journey that he started for us when he took over the Leitrim Senior Football team in late 1989. At that time the fortunes of the team were at a low ebb but PJ soon set about correcting that across the winter of 1989/90 and on the resumption of the NFL in February 1990 we began to see some glimmer of hope again. By the end of that particular league campaign, we had negotiated two playoff victories over Offaly and Wicklow to earn promotion from Division 3 (North) to NFL Division 2. We had something major to look forward to the following season.
What followed was a continuation of the remarkable turnaround in our fortunes. Under PJ’s drive and discipline, we captured an All-Ireland B title in November 1990 and Mickey Quinn was selected at midfield on the 1990 GAA All-Star Team. By the conclusion of that particular NFL we had finished third in Division 2, after a playoff with Kildare, and narrowly missed out on a quarter-final placing. What is most memorable about those days, apart from the performances on the field, were the huge crowds that followed the Leitrim team, no matter where the games were played. After so many years in the wilderness, it was box office stuff, Leitrim style!!
We maintained our newly found high league standing over the remaining years of PJ’s tenure and for many years beyond that but unfortunately, we just couldn’t get by Roscommon, whom we were paired with across his three Connacht Championship campaigns. If only there was a backdoor route, then!
They say a rising tide raises all boats and it’s fair to say that the influence of the Senior Team’s raised profile helped other teams also. PJ presided over a Connacht Under 21 Championship success in 1991. In that same year, the Leitrim Minor Team captured the Connacht Minor League and reached the Connacht Minor Final. Incidentally, the Leitrim Under 16 Team had won the Fr. Manning Cup in 1990. These were heady days for Leitrim football and the best was yet to come.
PJ handed over the managerial baton to the late John O Mahony in the Autumn of 1992, after three seasons in charge, but the seeds had most definitely been sown and our great success of 1994 duly followed. It is most poignant that we say goodbye to these two icons of Leitrim GAA history within four months of each other. They each played significant parts in this success.
Rest easy PJ, you will never be forgotten by those involved with Leitrim GAA, players, officials, and supporters, who dared to dream almost 35 years ago. You left your mark and a lasting legacy.
Our deepest sympathies are extended to PJ’s wife Anne, daughters Olivia, Annemarie, and Caroline, son Pauric, grandchildren Ellen, Hannah, Ruairí, Dáithí, Malachi, Tadhg, Rìan and Cùan and his siblings Pauline, Maureen, Martin and Sean.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh sé.
PJ Carrol’s Death Notice can be found on RIP.ie or at the link below.
https://www.leitrimgaa.ie/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Gen-WebNews-1-660x350.png350660Secretary Leitrim GAAhttp://www.leitrimgaa.ie/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/cropped-Leitrim_Crest_3d_Trans_552x552-180x180.pngSecretary Leitrim GAA2024-10-30 21:37:422024-10-31 12:00:40The Late PJ Carroll RIP, Cavan and Leitrim GAA.
Clubs are now invited to apply to Phase 3 of the GAA Green Club Programme4th January 2025 - 7:00 pm
Clubs are now invited to apply to Phase 3 of the GAA Green Club Programme
Club DevelopmentGAA, LGFA and Camogie Clubs are now invited to apply to Phase 3 of the GAA Green Club Programme. The programme which was established in 2020 is designed to support Gaelic Games clubs in taking simple and effective sustainability actions in their grounds and activities. The Programme is structured around the themes of Energy, Water, Waste, Biodiversity and Travel & Transport and is resourced with an online toolkit produced in partnership with local authorities and expert partners, including the Sustainable energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), the Local Authorities Water Programme (LAWPRo) and the Regional Waste Authorities. The toolkit is available at https://learning.gaa.ie/GreenClub and includes numerous case studies of Clubs who have successfully implemented actions, improving their facilities and reducing their impact on the environment.
Clubs who completed Phase 2 were recently presented with their awards at a ceremony in Croke Park where Uachtarán CLG Jarlath Burns described how Green Clubs are reinforcing the GAA’s social leadership, improving club facilities, and helping ensure a better future for their communities. “The breadth of initiatives being celebrated here, speaks volumes about the innovative and community-focused spirit of our clubs. The diversity of these projects demonstrates how clubs are finding creative ways to address local challenges while contributing to a national movement.”
The event was also attended by guest speaker Dr Aoibhinn Ní Shúilleabháin who spoke of the positive legacy Green Clubs are creating for future generations.
The GAA, LGFA and Camogie Associations are now inviting new clubs to apply to become Green Clubs. Applications are open from now until January 26th for the next round of the Green Club programme.
Interested clubs can apply at: https://greenclubs.gaa.ie/ .
Successful clubs will be guided through a series of steps over 2025 and 2026, supported to access funding, plan, implement and report on initiatives.
You can also contact Gerry McGovern, Leitrim GAA Safety and Facilities Officer, for more information.
Also see:
Green Clubs feature on the GAA Learning portal on YouTube
Source: GAA.ie
Aoibhinn Ní Shuilleabháin pictured addressing the attendees during the GAA Green Club Event at Croke Park in Dublin. Photo by Stephen Marken/Sportsfile.
Leitrim Handball Juvenile Christmas League reaches knockout stages
HandballThere was some great action served up in the Handball Juvenile Christmas League – Round 2 qualifiers and B-Plate matches in Fenagh earlier this evening.
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Original News Item:
The Leitrim Handball Juvenile Christmas League reaches knockout stages this weekend in Fenagh, and competition is sure to heat up with some very exciting 2nd round and quarter final fixtures down for decision.
First game at 5pm this evening.
Good Luck to all competing.
Irish Life GAA Healthy Clubs Every Step Counts Challenge 2025 – starting 8th January.
Health and WellbeingOur 50 Miles Challenge might be on pause for the moment but you can still get the steps in this January !
The Irish Life GAA Healthy Clubs Every Step Counts Challenge 2025 invites club and community members nationwide to get active, connect with their community and support their GAA club for 5 weeks, starting 8th January 2025.
· Irish Life’s Health of the Nation Report 2024 has found that as a population we’re becoming less active and feeling more isolated..
· The Irish Life GAA Healthy Clubs Every Step Counts Challenge 2024, which was facilitated on the MyLife app, recorded an increase of one million steps vs 2023 challenge
· 970 GAA clubs registered for the challenge in 2024, an increase of 181 clubs from 2023, with 125 from Connacht, 317 from Leinster, 268 from Munster and 263 from Ulster
The Irish Life GAA Healthy Clubs Every Step Counts Challenge, is back for a sixth year. The aim of the challenge is to create a healthier Ireland by encouraging people from all over the country to join together through their local GAA Club and get out walking over a five-week period. The challenge, which runs from the 8th January 2025 to 12th February 2025, is a country-wide initiative in partnership with Ireland Lights Up* and will be hosted on Irish Life’s health and wellbeing app, MyLife, allowing users to record and track their efforts and steps.
Findings from Irish Life’s 2024 Health of the Nation Report shows that 60% of Irish adults are now overweight or obese, with over 3 in 5 adults under 35 also reporting feelings of loneliness and isolation. Encouraging participation to combat these health issues, the Irish Life GAA Healthy Clubs Every Step Counts Challenge sees users partake in an organised walk around their local GAA facilities each week, fostering healthy habits and greater community engagement.
During the 2024 Irish Life GAA Healthy Clubs Every Step Counts Challenge, the campaign saw participation surge to an all-time high of 40,000, an increase of 10,000 people from 2023. Most notably, a promising uplift in new joiners in the 18-39 age category were seen, showcasing the efforts of this age group to improve their health and build connections. Together participants walked over 6.6 million kilometres throughout the 2024 campaign, an increase of one million kilometres completed from 2023.
The challenge offers the chance to win a share of €30,000 in GAA club funding from Irish Life. Each GAA Club that surpasses the 4,000-kilometre goal of collective steps recorded by their participants are entered into a draw to win one of three €2,500 donations towards club funding, across each province. The challenge was initially launched during lockdown to help people across Ireland get active and provide a social connection to others in their communities. Since 2021 the challenge has continued to evolve, with 970 clubs taking part in 2024 – a testament to the Irish Life GAA Healthy Clubs Programme commitment to improve health and wellbeing in communities across Ireland.
Claire Myers of Round Towers GAA, Lusk, Co. Dublin said of their club’s experience: “Each Monday we organised a walk around our GAA facility fields, followed by tea/coffee and biscuits in the club, and we often found the children were encouraging their parents to bring them along too. It was
fun checking the app to see our individual steps and ranking in the club, but more importantly, how easy it was to monitor how our club’s steps total was progressing compared to other clubs in Leinster.
“The Irish Life GAA Healthy Clubs Every Step Counts Challenge is a great initiative and it encouraged a lot of people to come out and walk. I received a lot of positive feedback from our members, saying it got them out and some of them are going to continue their Monday group walks, which is a very positive outcome. We’ll be back next year.”
Kate Casey, Head of Wellbeing Propositions at Irish Life commented “Our recent Irish Life 2024 Health of the Nation Report highlighted a concerning decline in physical activity and increased feelings of isolation, especially among those under 35. However, the consistent rise in participation in our Every Step Counts Challenge over the past 5 years demonstrates the importance of creating the opportunity for people to take part in physical activity, fostering a healthier and more connected community. The Irish Life GAA Healthy Clubs Programme, club officers and volunteers play a pivotal role in promoting health and wellbeing for communities all over Ireland and Irish Life are delighted to support this initiative through the MyLife app.”
Colin Regan, GAA Community and Health Manager said: “The Steps Challenge epitomises what the Irish Life GAA Healthy Clubs Programme is all about: it enables our inspirational club volunteers to put in place a health-enhancing intervention that benefits tens of thousands of people, while placing their club at the heart of their community. It brings to life the GAA motto ‘Where We All Belong’.”
The Irish Life GAA Healthy Clubs Programme delivers health and wellbeing benefits worth €50M to Ireland, an independent Social Return on Investment (SROI) evaluation completed by Just Economics in 2023 confirms. The research highlighted the significant health and wellbeing gains for participants, including increases in physical activity and adopting of healthier behaviours.
As the initiative continues to gain momentum, Irish Life’s ambition is to grow the Every Step Counts Challenge to support communities becoming active through a fun and collaborative programme. The five-week challenge is not only an enjoyable way to get active within the community but can help participants track measurable improvements to their overall health through Irish Life’s MyLife App.
The 2024 winners of the Irish Life GAA Healthy Clubs Every Step Counts Challenge were:
Connacht
· Kinvara GAA and Camogie Club, Galway – 4,099.7km tracked / 37 participants
· Club Iománaíochta Bearna Na Forbacha, Galway – 15,266.56km tracked / 76 participants
· Shannon Gaels, Roscommon – 8,900.5km tracked / 50 participants
Leinster
· Round Towers Lusk, Dublin – 19,080.9km / 110 participants
· Syddan GFC, Meath – 6,091.6km / 31 participants
· St Brendan’s Grangegorman, Dublin – 10,785.2km / 52 participants
Munster
· Ballydonoghue GAA, Kerry – 9,219.1km / 58 participants
· Ballygunner Hurling Club, Waterford – 17,527.6km / 106 participants
· Keel GAA, Kerry – 5,883.8km / 28 participants
Ulster
· O’Connell’s GAC Tullysaran, Armagh – 20,303.2km / 87 participants
· Kilrea GAC, Derry – 11,931.7km / 70 participants
· Omagh St Enda’s, Tyrone – 8,860.3km / 51 participants
Source: GAA.ie
Club Officer Training 2024/25 – Webinar date is 8th January
GeneralImportant diary date for next week !
The Club Leadership Development Programme (CLDP) provides learning opportunities for new and existing Club Officers in GAA, LGFA and Camogie Association Clubs to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to fulfil their roles. It focuses on the practical aspects of the primary roles on a Club Executive.
Familiarise yourself with the key knowledge and skills needed to get started in your Club Officer role. Connacht Council will provide of role-specific webinars for Chairpersons, Secretaries, Treasurers, PROs and Coaching Officers on Wednesday 8th January.
All webinars will last for approximately 90 minutes and will be delivered in an interactive way by experienced facilitators.
Some webinars are available for other roles, so please refer to the events calendar for more information.
https://learning.gaa.ie/club_leadership
Happy Christmas and have a wonderful New Year for 2025
GeneralWe would like to take this opportunity to wish our players, clubs, mentors, officials, administrators, supporters and sponsors a Happy Christmas and a wonderful New Year for 2025.
Beannachtaí na Nollaig agus Athbhlíaín faoi shéan is faoi mhaise daoibh go léir
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2025 Fixtures – Allianz League & Connacht
GeneralThe Allianz National League fixtures have been released live on the GAA Competitions System and as a result the feed is now available on our County page
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The Football Fixtures are – ALLIANZ NFL DIVISION 3
Rd 1 – Sat, 25-Jan – Leitrim v Laois
in Páirc Seán Uí Eslín, Ballinamore at 2:30pm
Rd 2 – Sun, 02-Feb – Clare v Leitrim
in Cusack Park, Ennis at 2:00pm
Rd 3 – Sun, 16-Feb – Leitrim v Kildare
in Páirc Seán Uí Eslín, Ballinamore at 2:00pm
Rd 4 – Sat, 22-Feb – Antrim v Leitrim
in Corrigan Park, Belfast at 2:30pm
Rd 5 – Sun, 02-Mar – Leitrim v Offaly
in Páirc Seán Uí Eslín, Ballinamore at 2:00pm
Rd 6 – Sun, 16-Mar – Leitrim v Fermanagh
in Páirc Seán Uí Eslín, Ballinamore at 2:00pm
Rd 7 – Sun, 23-Mar – Sligo v Leitrim
in Markievicz Park at 2:00pm
March 29-30: Final
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The Hurling Fixtures are – ALLIANZ NHL DIVISION 4
Rd 1 – Sat, 25-Jan – Lancashire v Leitrim
in Abbottstown at 2:00pm
Rd 2 – Sun, 02-Feb – Leitrim – BYE
Rd 3 – Sat, 08-Feb – Leitrim v Longford
in Shane McGettigan Park, Drumshanbo at 2:00pm
Rd 4 – Sun, 23-Feb – Louth v Leitrim
in Páirc Naomh Bríd, Dowdallshill at 1:15pm
Rd 5 – Sat, 01-Mar – Leitrim v Monaghan
in Shane McGettigan Park, Drumshanbo at 2:00pm
Rd 6 – Sat, 08-Mar – Fermanagh v Leitrim
in Brewster Park at 2:00pm
Rd 7 – Sat, 22-Mar – Leitrim v Warwickshire
in Shane McGettigan Park, Drumshanbo at 2:00pm
March 29-30: Final
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The 2025 Connacht fixtures have been confirmed and the list in full, which contains County & Club fixtures, is available here on Connacht website. (Only some competition feeds are available live on our website at the moment and will be updated as they are released)
This list includes the Connacht Clubs fixtures and whilst November 2025 is 11 months away it is worth noting that in all 3 of the AIB Club Senior, Intermediate and Junior Championships the Leitrim Teams are drawn in the semi-finals and avoid quarter final games.
Senior: Leitrim Champions v [Galway or Sligo]
Intermediate: Leitrim Champions v Roscommon
Junior: Leitrim Champions v Galway
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Acknowledgement from the family of the late PJ Carroll, Cavan.
GeneralAnne & the Carroll Family, Cavan Town, wish to convey our sincere appreciation to the people of Leitrim especially the GAA fraternity for your kindness and support following PJ’s recent death in late October.
‘The Leitrim Gathering’ – 23rd – 25th May 2025
GeneralDuring the recent soft launch of our Quid Games event we heard from Justin Fannon from Leitrim County Council (who support initiatives by Leitrim LGFA & GAA) about a big event coming up in May and we are delighted to assist them in promoting The Leitrim Gathering to the Leitrim Diaspora far and wide.
‘The Leitrim Gathering’ – 23rd – 25th May 2025
Connect, Celebrate, Share – The Leitrim Gathering offers a full weekend of events for all the family.
The countdown is on, and preparations are well underway for an exciting, fun filled weekend of celebrations for ‘The Leitrim Gathering’. An event for Leitrim people all over the world, ‘The Leitrim Gathering’ is a celebration of everything great about our County.
‘The Leitrim Gathering’ allows Leitrim people worldwide to connect and celebrate place, culture and heritage. Leitrim people living abroad, who are not in a position to return home for this special weekend, are encouraged to organise events wherever they are in the world and join in celebrating our Leitrim heritage. To those who can attend ‘The Leitrim Gathering’ in person, whether you now reside outside of the county, or currently live in Leitrim or have made Leitrim your new home, a warm welcome awaits you at the many events.
The response to ‘The Leitrim Gathering’ has been phenomenal, with over 40 events organised to date. Community groups from all over County Leitrim have responded to the call and have
planned a series of original, energising and animating events. The final programme is currently being developed but rest assured, there is a range of exciting and varied events taking place to interest all the family. Events are planned throughout the county, giving you the opportunity to visit north, south, east and west and immerse yourself in the natural, unspoilt landscape that makes Leitrim so special.
Scheduled from 23rd to 25th May 2025, ‘The Leitrim Gathering’ is a weekend for all the family, with a series of literary, cultural and heritage, music and dance events arranged.
Check out social media on #LeitrimGathering and www.theleitrimgathering.com for further updates over the coming weeks and months. Help us make ‘The Leitrim Gathering’ a truly special occasion. Don’t forget to spread the word about this exciting event! Encourage those living overseas to consider booking a trip to Lovely Leitrim to coincide with the event or alternatively, if they are not in a position to attend the event in person, encourage them to organise an event wherever they reside to celebrate their Leitrim Heritage and they can share the fun via social media!
Visit theleitrimgathering.com for further information and check out an exciting competition for someone abroad to win return flights to Leitrim and 7 nights’ accommodation for ‘The Leitrim Gathering’.
* Press Release by Leitrim County Council
Leitrim GAA/LGFA Soft Launch of 2025 Joint Fundraiser
GeneralOver the past four years, Leitrim GAA has run a very successful fundraising campaign the 50-Mile Challenge and we were delighted to be joined by Leitrim LGFA for the last two of these, adding a bounce and an energy to the month of January each year.
We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who supported and took part — it proved a vital source of funding for our activities over the past four years. In 2024 we achieved promotion to Allianz League Division 3, captured the Andrew O’Neill Cup as All-Ireland C Hurling Champions and our U16 Footballers brought home the Fr. Manning Cup for the first time since 1990. In addition to this, there were much improved performances from all of our representative teams from U20 down through the Academies. The 50 Mile Challenge campaign which was supported locally and nationally, as well as in some 70 different locations worldwide, raised over €500,000 over its four-year term. We are so grateful to all those who took part. There was a sense of belonging that we hope to hold onto as we head into a new campaign in 2025.
This coming year, while we will press pause on the 50-Mile Challenge, we are thrilled to introduce a new initiative: The Quid Games. This exciting event will take place on March 16th, and we’re counting on your support once again. The Quid Games is a joint venture between Leitrim GAA and Leitrim LGFA, and promises to be a fun and engaging event for all.
To kick things off, we hosted a soft launch event in Carrick Business Campus on December 12th, where we had an online chat hosted by Declan Bohan, Secretary of Leitrim GAA and Kathy Butler, Chairperson Leitrim LGFA. We heard from Justin Fannon, from Leitrim County Council, who are delighted to support initiatives by Leitrim LGFA & GAA, particularly those reaching the Leitrim Diaspora. With a gathering event due to happen in May of 2025 (23rd to 25th), there is excitement building with a weekend of homecoming celebration planned – for more information see theleitrimgathering.com
Declan went on to chat with Leitrim Ladies stalwart Claire Owens and one of Leitrim GAA’s young guns Donal Casey about their significant achievements this year and thoughts for the upcoming season. Check out the Facebook pages of Leitrim GAA or LGFA part 1 / part 2 for a recording!
Both players expressed their gratitude to the respective county boards for the support they receive which they do not underestimate, and without sponsorship and fundraising there quite simply would be no county teams. Clare stressed the importance of continued support to ensure a future for the teams with so much talent coming through and with some of the highest per capita rates of participation in Gaelic games in the country, we need to nurture our emerging talent. Donal spoke about the commitment required to play football for Leitrim. With most young people studying some distance from home, commuting for training and games can be challenging so financial support is really vital.
The night finished up with words of thanks from both players and they expressed their ambitions for 2025 – to once again do the people of Leitrim proud.
There will be an official launch in January, in the meantime if you or your company would like to get involved—whether by participating, sponsoring a team, or sponsoring a competition—please don’t hesitate to contact us. Your continued support is invaluable, and together we can make this initiative a huge success.
We look forward to your participation in The Quid Games and thank you for your ongoing commitment to our community.
2025 Leitrim GAA Goalkeeping Coach
GeneralArmagh native Paddy Morrison has joined the incoming Leitrim GAA Senior Team as Goalkeeper Coach. Paddy is the son of former Leitrim coach, the late great John Morrison.
Paddy comes with a wealth of experience and quality having been Kilcoo’s Goalkeeping Coach when they won the All-Ireland Club title.
Paddy has also intercounty experience with a number of counties including Monaghan Under 20s and Armagh Seniors and will most certainly help develop and improve our fantastic young goalkeepers..
We welcome Paddy to Leitrim.
GAELIC ARMOUR ANNOUNCES LANDMARK PARTNERSHIP WITH LEITRIM GAA
GeneralGaelic Armour is delighted to unveil a landmark three-year partnership with Leitrim GAA, becoming the official kit manufacturer for all Leitrim GAA county teams. This innovative profit-sharing agreement represents a significant milestone for both organisations, celebrating a shared commitment to excellence, innovation, and the rich Gaelic Games heritage of County Leitrim.
Under this exciting agreement, Gaelic Armour will supply Leitrim GAA teams with state-of-the-art playing kits, training gear, and supporter merchandise. All kits, including replica jerseys, will be proudly designed and manufactured in Ireland, ensuring superior quality while reflecting the unique identity and culture of Leitrim.
Commenting on the partnership, Billy Hayes, Managing Director of Gaelic Armour, said:
“We are thrilled to partner with Leitrim GAA. While it may be considered a small county in terms of population, it is a big county in terms of passion, pride, and love for Gaelic Games. At Gaelic Armour, we are dedicated to designing products that not only deliver peak performance but also honour the traditions and heritage of Leitrim players and supporters. We look forward to an exciting journey together over the next three years.”
The collaboration launches with the unveiling of the new Leitrim GAA jersey, inspired by the iconic Pól an Eas waterfall. This unique design pays homage to Leitrim’s stunning natural beauty and resilient spirit, while incorporating Gaelic Armour’s innovative fabric technology to enhance player performance.
Leitrim GAA Chairperson, Enda Stenson, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership:
“This agreement with Gaelic Armour marks an exciting new chapter for Leitrim GAA. It brings a strong commercial incentive for both parties, and their commitment to Irish manufacturing aligns perfectly with our values. We’re proud to see our players and supporters wear jerseys that capture the essence of our county while enhancing performance on the pitch.”
Fans can look forward to an exclusive launch event for the new jersey, alongside a full range of supporter merchandise available in stores and online.
This partnership underscores Gaelic Armour’s ongoing mission to support grassroots and elite Gaelic Games, fostering pride, passion, and performance across Ireland.
About Gaelic Armour
Gaelic Armour is an innovative Irish sportswear brand, specialising in high-performance gear for Gaelic Games. Known for its cutting-edge designs and sustainable practices, Gaelic Armour is dedicated to supporting players and communities with premium products that celebrate the history and heritage of the GAA.
Link to Gaelic Armour Online Retail store which will open on Friday, 22 Nov, at 8am:
https://www.gaelicarmour.com/collections/leitrim-gaa
The Late PJ Carroll RIP, Cavan and Leitrim GAA.
General, RIPIt is with a mixture of great sadness and very fond memories that we learned earlier today of the passing of the late PJ Carroll of Cootehill Road, Cavan Town. PJ was an inspirational figure no matter where he travelled in his many coaching and managerial roles throughout a host of counties and clubs and across a number of decades. He left a lasting legacy no matter where he found himself.
Of course, in Leitrim, we have very many fond memories of the journey that he started for us when he took over the Leitrim Senior Football team in late 1989. At that time the fortunes of the team were at a low ebb but PJ soon set about correcting that across the winter of 1989/90 and on the resumption of the NFL in February 1990 we began to see some glimmer of hope again. By the end of that particular league campaign, we had negotiated two playoff victories over Offaly and Wicklow to earn promotion from Division 3 (North) to NFL Division 2. We had something major to look forward to the following season.
What followed was a continuation of the remarkable turnaround in our fortunes. Under PJ’s drive and discipline, we captured an All-Ireland B title in November 1990 and Mickey Quinn was selected at midfield on the 1990 GAA All-Star Team. By the conclusion of that particular NFL we had finished third in Division 2, after a playoff with Kildare, and narrowly missed out on a quarter-final placing. What is most memorable about those days, apart from the performances on the field, were the huge crowds that followed the Leitrim team, no matter where the games were played. After so many years in the wilderness, it was box office stuff, Leitrim style!!
We maintained our newly found high league standing over the remaining years of PJ’s tenure and for many years beyond that but unfortunately, we just couldn’t get by Roscommon, whom we were paired with across his three Connacht Championship campaigns. If only there was a backdoor route, then!
They say a rising tide raises all boats and it’s fair to say that the influence of the Senior Team’s raised profile helped other teams also. PJ presided over a Connacht Under 21 Championship success in 1991. In that same year, the Leitrim Minor Team captured the Connacht Minor League and reached the Connacht Minor Final. Incidentally, the Leitrim Under 16 Team had won the Fr. Manning Cup in 1990. These were heady days for Leitrim football and the best was yet to come.
PJ handed over the managerial baton to the late John O Mahony in the Autumn of 1992, after three seasons in charge, but the seeds had most definitely been sown and our great success of 1994 duly followed. It is most poignant that we say goodbye to these two icons of Leitrim GAA history within four months of each other. They each played significant parts in this success.
Rest easy PJ, you will never be forgotten by those involved with Leitrim GAA, players, officials, and supporters, who dared to dream almost 35 years ago. You left your mark and a lasting legacy.
Our deepest sympathies are extended to PJ’s wife Anne, daughters Olivia, Annemarie, and Caroline, son Pauric, grandchildren Ellen, Hannah, Ruairí, Dáithí, Malachi, Tadhg, Rìan and Cùan and his siblings Pauline, Maureen, Martin and Sean.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh sé.
PJ Carrol’s Death Notice can be found on RIP.ie or at the link below.
https://rip.ie/death-notice/pj-patrick-joseph-carroll-cavan-cavan-town-573243
Image courtesy of RIP.ie