Drumboylan/Keadue Men’s Group marks 20 year milestone

A group that began as a modest response to rural isolation has grown into a modern-day “rambling house”. Drumboylan/Keadue Rural Men’s Group recently celebrated 20 years of friendship, support and shared experience with a special anniversary event in St Ronan’s Hall, Keadue.

The celebration marked two decades since the formation of the group, which was established in 2005 to provide a social outlet for men in Drumboylan and surrounding areas. The evening brought together current members, former tutors, supporters and representatives of Roscommon LEADER Partnership to reflect on the group’s origins, its evolution and the enduring value it continues to offer in rural life.

The roots of the Drumboylan/Keadue Rural Men’s Group can be traced back to the early 2000s, when Roscommon LEADER Partnership identified a clear need for targeted social initiatives for men living in rural communities. At the time, research highlighted that rural men were often difficult to reach and, in many cases, reluctant to engage with formal services, leaving some particularly vulnerable to isolation and loneliness.

An initial exploratory meeting was held at Gleeson’s Townhouse, Roscommon attended by representatives from various agencies and support organisations across the county. From this meeting, a steering committee emerged, and three pilot areas were selected for the establishment of Rural Men’s Groups in Roscommon.

The first of these was launched in October 2005 at Drumboylan Community Centre. It operated initially as a pilot project, but its success quickly became evident. Sustained participation and positive feedback led to further funding being secured, and a full-time Rural Men’s Group worker was appointed to support the Drumboylan group and to help establish additional groups in Loughglynn and Dysart in subsequent years.

For many years, the Drumboylan Men’s Group met weekly during the winter months, typically welcoming between 15 and 20 men for three-hour sessions. The programme was deliberately flexible and participant-led, with activities ranging from workshops and guest speakers to skills-sharing, field trips and social outings. However, members often agree that the most valuable aspect of the group has been far simpler - regular conversation, companionship and a sense of belonging.

Summer outings and social trips became a highlight of the calendar, while the informal atmosphere allowed men to share stories, memories and experiences that might otherwise have gone unspoken. In more recent years, the group relocated to the Mo Chairde Day Centre in Keadue and adopted its current name, the Drumboylan/Keadue Rural Men’s Group, while retaining the same ethos that has guided it since the beginning.

Addressing the gathering at the anniversary celebration, Anthony Dockery of Roscommon LEADER Partnership described the event as “a night of both joy and emotion”. He paid tribute to everyone who had contributed to the group over the past two decades, noting that many involved in its early days are sadly no longer with them.

A special mention was made of the late Padraig Deane, whose enthusiasm, passion and vision were instrumental in establishing the group. Mr Dockery said Mr Deane would have been immensely proud to see the men celebrating such a significant milestone, describing the anniversary as a testament to the commitment of the members themselves.

However, he stressed that the focus of the evening rightly belonged to the men of the group. “This is your evening,” he told them, expressing profound gratitude for their dedication in maintaining the social connection that has flourished since 2005. Reflecting on modern life, Mr Dockery observed that while society now enjoys unprecedented levels of instant communication, many people experience greater disconnection than ever before. In that context, he emphasised the continued importance of groups like Drumboylan/Keadue, describing it as “their rambling house” — a safe and welcoming space rooted in tradition but vital to contemporary rural life.

Long-serving tutor Jimmy Lennon recalled many memorable moments from his time working with the group. From stories of banshees to old cures and local traditions, he said, “we heard it all”, highlighting the richness of local knowledge and folklore shared around the table over the years, along with the strong friendships that developed.

Author Gerry Boland also addressed the gathering, speaking about his experience compiling the book ‘From Drumboylan to Ballaghaderreen – 38 Men Talking’. He described the satisfaction he felt in recording the life stories and reflections of local men, noting that such accounts represent an invaluable social history that will endure for future generations.

Linda Devine of Roscommon LEADER Partnership congratulated the group on reaching its 20th anniversary and praised the importance of community-based initiatives that build connection and well-being at a local level. She wished the Drumboylan/Keadue group continued success as it looks ahead to the future.

Current Rural Men’s Group worker Caroline Beirne spoke warmly about her own experience working with the group, praising the humour, banter and entertainment that characterise the weekly meetings, while also acknowledging the strong bonds of respect and friendship among the men.

Members of the group themselves shared personal memories and reflections throughout the evening, underlining the sense of welcome and encouragement they have experienced. Several extended an open invitation to other men in the wider community to consider joining, reinforcing the inclusive spirit that has defined the group since its foundation.

Mr Dockery concluded the formal proceedings by thanking all those who have supported the group over the years, including past and present Rural Men’s Group workers, tutors and contributors. He also acknowledged Mary Brehony, who served as the group’s cook for many years, as well as the Rural Men’s Group Steering Committee, Drumboylan Community Centre Committee, St Ronan’s Hall Committee, Mo Chairde Day Centre and the various funding bodies that have provided ongoing support.

Above all, he paid tribute to the members themselves, whose participation, camaraderie and loyalty have sustained the Drumboylan/Keadue Rural Men’s Group for two decades.

The evening concluded on a celebratory note, with refreshments generously provided by Mo Chairde Day Centre, a raffle supported by local businesses, and musical entertainment from three talented young local women, bringing a fitting close to a night that honoured community, connection and shared history.

Anyone interested in learning more about the Drumboylan/Keadue Rural Men’s Group, or in joining, is invited to contact Caroline Beirne on 086 075 6736 or Anthony Dockery on 086 826 4868.