Interviewed by Jaimee Gilbride & Sarah Haughey / Photos by Emma O’Brien.

Jaimee & Sarah: How long have you lived in the area?
Pat: 2 ½ years in Ballymahon- originally from Abbeyshrule.

Jaimee & Sarah: What’s a fond memory you have of living here?
Pat: (In Abbeyshrule) I used to go hunting and fishing regularly. I regularly caught brown trout in the River Inny. I spent a lot of time playing outside with my brothers. During the 1960s, there was a carnival in Ballymahon. When I was younger I went to dances in the community hall.

Jaimee & Sarah: Have you seen this community come back from hard times before?
Pat: Yes. Ireland used to be a very poor country. Children only went to primary school, then left to work so that they could support their families.The emigration rates were through the roof because there was a lack of employment. Thankfully there are now loads of jobs available in Ireland today.

Jaimee & Sarah: What are some things that have helped you through lockdown and what brings you joy?
Pat: I really like going on walks through the countryside. I usually walk 6 miles a day! I really like playing the guitar. I‘ve been playing the guitar for a good few years now and I’m a decent musician. I like to watch the local and national GAA matches on tv.

Jaimee & Sarah: What does community mean to you? What sort of things are you doing now to stay connected to your community and family?
Pat: I love talking to my neighbours. They really are very welcoming and the people in this community are very warm and friendly. I talk to my brothers and other family members living around Longford on my new smartphone- it’s a great invention for communication.

Jaimee & Sarah: What message do you want to share for yourself and this community in 10 years time?
Pat: I never want our young people to forget how lucky they are to have so many opportunities available to them. Ireland used to be so poor and now we’re not! We have to remain united with the rest of Ireland and keep a strong bond with everyone in our community.

Pictured below are photos of Pat from a gathering in the Ballymahon library of the students and seniors who took part in the project, which took place on Ash Wednesday. Also pictured are Jaimee & Sarah’s creative responses to their interview with Pat- a painted mirror and a drawing inspired by Pat’s adventures.

Pat Samnon