Rooskey company is overall winner
National Enterprise Week began with a flourish in Roscommon on Monday, as the County Enterprise Awards took centre stage at the Hodson Bay Hotel. Hosted by Roscommon Local Enterprise Office (LEO), the event celebrated some of the county’s most innovative and ambitious businesses across various industries.
Winners were announced in four categories – Outstanding Contribution, Smart Business, Growth and Ambition, and One to Watch – alongside the coveted Overall Winner award.
In his address at the ceremony, CEO of Roscommon County Council, Shane Tiernan, commended the role of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in sustaining the local economy, praising Roscommon LEO for facilitating the creation of over 1,000 jobs in the sector.
“The businesses honoured here today epitomise the qualities of innovation, resilience, creativity, and ambition that are necessary to create employment and wealth for communities across the county,” Mr Tiernan said.
He acknowledged the current global challenges, including inflation and geopolitical uncertainty, but expressed confidence in the county’s business community. “The spirit of entrepreneurship in Roscommon remains strong and enduring,” he added.
Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice, noted that the awards, now in their 26th year, form part of a wider programme of events taking place throughout National Enterprise Week. Addressing those in attendance, he said: “Your businesses and those of similar business are the economic heartbeat of the county.”
Celebrating success
The title of Overall Winner at the 2025 County Enterprise Awards went to Euro Accessories Sales Ltd, based just outside Rooskey. Managing Director Ray Gilsenan accepted the award, accompanied by his family.
Speaking to the Roscommon People following the event, Mr Gilsenan credited the LEO’s support for his company’s growth, which started in his garage before expanding to a team of ten employees in Rooskey.
“We had an old Chinese machine and the production was quite slow,” he explained. However, with the assistance of the LEO, his production capacity “tripled.”
The Ambition and Growth Award was presented to FarmLab Diagnostics, based in Elphin. Represented by John Gilmore, the company specialises in the analysis of animal samples to monitor disease and overall animal health. Since its foundation in 2012, the business has expanded significantly.
The award for Outstanding Contribution went to Patricia O’Flaherty of Naomh Padraig Handcrafts. Based in Cloonshee, Strokestown, Ms O’Flaherty previously worked with the Sliabh Bán Handcraft Co-Operative before establishing her own business 30 years ago. The handcraft business produces all manner of traditional Irish crafts and exports two-thirds of its products to the USA.
The One to Watch Award was won by Healthy Bake Ltd, an artisan bakery founded by Timea Kovacs. The company, known for its ‘Best FREE FROM’ range, aims to make inclusive meals without compromising on quality.
“I absolutely love the support,” Ms Kovacs said of the LEO: “They are probably sick of me because I have been on for every kind of support they offer.”
The Smart Business Award was presented to Fergal Cormican of Cormican’s, a long-standing family business on Abbey Street in Roscommon Town. Originally a school book supplier, the business has expanded over its 44-year history to include an extensive wholesale operation, an online store, and a range of arts, crafts, and office supplies.
The County Enterprise Awards continue to serve as a showcase for the innovation and determination of Roscommon’s entrepreneurs. As National Enterprise Week progresses, further events and workshops will highlight the support available to local businesses looking to grow and develop.
