Its been a busy time for the Tidy Towns Committee recently. They have engaged with Flynn Furney Environmental Consultants to draft a Biodiversity Action Plan for Ballybay. The plan will start this year and will run until 2023. The group would like to thank Fearghal Duffy for his photography of local wildlife, flora and fauna for inclusion in the plan. Anyone who would like a copy of the plan should contact Olivia Duffy.
The group also met with Ross Mc Donnell from Stranooden Group Water Scheme. Ross discussed his work which includes source protection of drinking water.

The death Oliver Creegan occurred last Thursday at his home in Cavan.  Oliver and his wife Pat contributed so much to our community during their stay in Ballybay. The Pearse Brothers, Credit Union, St. Vincent de Paul, ICA and many other local groups owe them a great debt of gratitude. May he rest in peace.

The parish is asking parishioners to return their Trocaire Purple Envelopes via the Parish Office. It would also be very much appreciated if coins could be converted to notes. In 2020 €6400 was raised for Trocaire. We will have an update on the 2021 figure in the near future

Monaghan Integrated Development CLG in conjunction with DSP are running a Job Club for unemployed people online over 4 mornings from 10am to 11-30am. The Job Club covers C.V. preparation, Cover letter Writing, Interview Techniques and Mock Interviews. For further information please contact Teresa McCahey at 042-9748090/086-8105058 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

Have you always wanted to learn how to line dance? Look no further than our virtual health fair! On Friday 16th April from 1pm-2pm join our free virtual line dancing class. Suitable for all levels and guaranteed fun! Register today at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdOsj458-HwcVs3G1plqDQbykzc1_hYR_PEhgOaqyisXKttOg/viewform

Please note that club memberships are due and should be paid by April 16th to ensure voting rights and entry into EARLY BIRD complimentary membership draw for 2022. Thanks to all those who have already renewed their membership to date on our Klubfunder. We encourage all members to use this option where possible. Other payment methods can be facilitated by contacting the club Registrar or Treasurer .. and thanks to all those who have already done this. If you have any queries regarding membership please contact one of the following committee members. Paul, Registrar (text @ 0873672106 ), Brian @ This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. (text @ 085 7117215 ) or Teresa @ This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. ( text @ 086 1691304 )

It is intended to form a committee to facilitate improvements at St. Mary's Church, Latton. One of the projects which needs looking at is the development of new burial ground. If you are interested in being a part of this committee, please contact Damien Hughes at 042-9742621 on or before 16th April.

Local Daffodil Day organiser Brian Carroll has spoken to the Ballybay News about this year’s event. Covid has made things difficult however all is not lost. Brian commented, “We can't be on the streets on Daffodil Day tomorrow Friday, 26 March 2021 -but the community of BALLYBAY and surrounding areas can still make a huge difference. If they could please click on the link below they can donate there https://daffodilday-virtualcollection.blackbaud-sites.com.
Brian Carroll also said, “If you want, please feel free to share to your social media streams, local groups and community pages as this would really help to raise an awareness of this year’s virtual events as well as raising much needed funds to support cancer patients and their families. All donations are welcome, big or small. Once again, thanks for your continued support ... over the years, the BALLYBAY communities both local and afar have been wonderful, and we're very appreciative”.

On the 20th March 1956 St Macartan’s College Monaghan last won the Mac Rory Cup. Three members of Ballybay Pearse Brothers were part of that great team 65 years ago - Paul Flynn, Peader Lynch RIP and Mickey Mc Entee RIP. To mark the occasion a presentation was made last Saturday to Paul Flynn and to Pat Lynch on behalf of his brother Peader. A presentation to the Mc Entee family on behalf of Mickey Mc Entee will take place later in the week. The presentation was made by former Ulster, Monaghan and Pearse Brother great Paul Mc Carthy. The presentation to Paul and Pat can be seen on the Ballybay and its People facebook page.

Two weeks ago we reported that the local Tidy Towns Committee had set up a GoFundMe page in order to raise funds during the current pandemic. As of Monday evening the amount raised was an amazing €4, 575. This is a fantastic amount of money which should help with a number of new initiatives this year. The Tidy Town committee are also interested to hear peoples views on a community garden or allotments area in Ballybay? Funding has been announced under Clar for this. Types of Intervention eligible include Groundworks, Footpaths, Raised Beds, Native pollinator plants, Sensory planting and equipment, Polytunnels, Sheds, Rainwater harvesting tanks, Fencing, Gates, Tools as appropriate, Benches, Picnic tables, Shelters and Outdoor pizza ovens/BBQ areas. If you are interested comment on the Tidy Towns facebook page under the post submitted by Olivia Duffy on 2oth March 2021.

With the country still at level 5 covid restrictions it will not be possible to have people at Holy Week Masses. The parish will be offering on-line Liturgies via the webcam. All masses can be viewed via the following links: https://www.churchservices.tv/ballybay while masses from Tullycorbet can be viewed: https://www.churchservices.tv/tullycorbet  and masses from Ballintra at: https://www.churchservices.tv/ballintraballybay
The Holy Week masses will be as follows:
Saturday 27th – Vigil Mass for Palm Sunday at 6-30pm
Sunday 28th – Tullycorbet 9-30am and Ballintra 11am
Monday 29th – no evening mass instead there will be a short prayer service. There will however be mass at 9-30am.
Tuesday/Wednesday 30th/31st – mass online at 9-30am
Holy Thursday 1st April – Ballintra 6pm and Tullycorbet
Good Friday 2nd April – the Lord’s Passion – St. Patrick’s 3pm
Holy Saturday 3rd April – St. Patrick’s 8pm
Easter Sunday 4th April – Tullycorbet 9-30am and Ballintra 11am.

Ballybay Pearse Brothers juvenile committee have been busy putting management teams together for their various underage teams. The committee would like to thank all volunteers for taking the time to help all our future stars in the coming year.
Under 7's Paul Finlay, Therese Sammon, Enda Keenan, Sarah Deery, Tiernan Mc Skeane
Under 9's Colin Malone, Paul Mc Cabe, Conor Monaghan, Jonathan Rutledge
Under 11's Mac Sammon, Shane Monaghan, Daragh Drury, Austin Curran, Brian Mc Cabe
Under 13's Daniel Caraher, James Kerr, Fergal Smyth
Under 15's Darren Smyth, Daryl Gilmour, Barney McCabe, Damien Gilmour
Under 17's St Patricks Kevin Smyth
The committee are putting plans in place for our annual registration for all juveniles and we will communicate finalised dates and times once the government gives the green light to do so. This information along with other underage news will be available on the ‘Ballybay Juveniles’ new facebook page. Finally thank you to Drew of the Wylies for his handy work on repairing a vital piece of equipment at Pearse Park. Cheers Drew.

The winners of the Ballybay Pearse Brothers National Lotto Bonus Ball draw for Saturday 20th March were Ann Garraghan, Sean Connolly and Sean O Grady. Bonus Ball 32. €5 to play – 47 numbers. €80 winner.
Contact Barry 087 2589371, Teresa 086 1691304 or Brian 085 7117215.

Ballybay Chamber of Commerce have welcomed the news that the Ballybay Branch of Bank of Ireland was not on the list of branches that are to close. On Monday last the Bank announced that it has taken a decision to close 103 branches in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, as the acceleration in digital banking has now reached a "tipping point". The branches are due to close from the end of September. As a result of the closures, the bank's branch network in the Republic of Ireland will be reduced by 88, leaving 169, while 15 Northern Ireland branches will close, leaving 13.
Speaking to the Ballybay News a spokesperson for the Chamber said, “We are delighted that our Bank is to remain open. This is a real vote of confidence in our branch. We are sorry to hear the news that the branches in Castleblayney, Clones and Cootehill are to close however Ballybay is convenient to all these towns and perhaps individuals and businesses might consider moving their accounts to the local branch”.
Work is to start shortly on a car park behind the bank and this coupled with the 24hour ATM will leave the branch a very important asset for mid county Monaghan.

St. Brigid’s LGFC are hosting a Clothes Collection in aid of the club. Now is a good time to do a bit of a spring clean and if you have any old or unwanted clothes or shoes the club will quite happily take them of your hands. Clothes/shoes can be dropped off at Drury’s Centra, Ballybay or Action Adhesives (A75 W862). Items can be dropped off until Monday 8th March.

Mother’s Day Flowers are available at Smyths Newsagents in the Square. You can also have the flowers delivered (Strict Covid-19 precautions will apply). For further information contact Therese at 0876853316

Massive congratulations to Ballybay great Hugh Malone and his lovely wife Andrea on the birth of their beautiful baby girl Annie last weekend. Congratulations to proud grandparents Gerry, Deirdre, Hugh Senior and Kathleen.

The friends and family of Teresa Mc Entee, Shamrock Terrace would like to wish her a very happy Birthday. Teresa who does trojan work for the Ballybay Pearse Brothers celebrated her 50th Birthday on Tuesday.

Although there is nothing clarified on the commencement of juvenile football, we are preparing hard behind the scenes to make sure that all the juvenile teams are ready to go. All the coaches are looking forward to welcoming back everyone and some new faces in the coming season. Keep practising your skills at home. Thank you to all the coaches that took part in the online courses recently. Ballybay juveniles have a new facebook page which will give information on games, teams and future events. To join search Ballybay Juveniles to be accepted as a friend. Finally a huge thanks to Dessie Ward from Breakthrough performance for his excellent sessions for our underage teams throughout the county.

The winners of the Ballybay Pearse Brothers National Lotto Bonus Ball draw for Saturday 27th February were Ann Finlay, Colin Malone and Maggie Caraher. Bonus Ball still available. €5 to play – 47 numbers. €80 winner.
Contact Barry 087 2589371,  Teresa 086 1691304 or Brian 085 7117215. The club extends our deepest sympathy to Claudine Wylie and the Armstrong and Wylie families on the sad passing of Claudine’s brother Ivan. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam

Eleanor Glennon is a Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist and Play Therapist with a private practice in Kinnegad, Co. Meath. Throughout her career as a Social Care Worker and Psychotherapist, Eleanor has developed a strong interest in the sensory system and how we can use sensory play as a tool in helping children to feel calm and regulated in their bodies. Eleanor enjoys delivering workshops which are evidence-based and full of play!

"Supporting Parents in a Pandemic"

Eleanor will be delivering a webinar aimed at supporting parents to further develop their Pandemic Parenting Toolkit. We will look at the unique challenges of parenting during a pandemic such as online/at-home learning, missing social connection, juggling working from home with parenting full-time, and the difficult emotions which come along with this for both parents and little ones! In this webinar we will focus on building self-care practices for all of the family, coping with the big emotions, creating and maintaining meaningful connections with your children, and how to find the "fun" with at-home learning. There is a heavy load being carried by parents across the country right now, and this webinar will look at ways to make that load a little lighter.

A massive well done to everyone who took part in the recent Ballybay Pearse Brothers 5km run/walk/cycle for dementia and mental health. A total of €3, 054 was raised and has been donated to ‘Alzheimer’s Monaghan’. The Pearse Brothers committee would like to sincerely thank everyone who supported the event.

Last week was a busy one on the Birthdays and engagement front. Two local ladies Donna Rutledge and Linda Smyth turned 40. It was also an important time for four other locals. Damien Gilmour and Nisha Sherry and Caoimhe Duffy and Eddie Lennon announced their engagements. Congratulations and best wishes to them all.

Sadly this year’s St. Patrick’s Day parade has been postponed owing to the Covid-19 pandemic. The parade attracts large numbers to the town every year however the organisers felt it would not be possible to keep the required 2m social distance and run the parade safely.

Monaghan Integrated Development CLG in conjunction with DSP are running a Job Club for unemployed people online over 4 mornings from 10am until 11-30am. The Jobs Club covers Job Searching, C.V. preparation, Cover Letter Writing, Interview Techniques and Mock Interview. For further information please contact Teresa McCahey on 042-9748090/086-8105958 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Trocaire boxes are available in the three parish churches and donations can also be made via the iDonate button on clogherdiocese.ie This year the theme is around solidarity with those families affected by war in South Sudan

The local branch of St. Vincent De Paul thanks the many people who supported the recent Christmas appeal and who have supported the work of the society throughout all of 2020. With churches closed for long periods owing to the pandemic, the introduction of the ‘envelope’ meant that parishioners remained very supportive of the needs of St. Vincent de Paul and for this we say a sincere thank you. Aware that the pandemic has placed some people in difficult financial situations, St. Vincent de Paul is there to help in so far as it can. Requests for help can be put in writing and placed in the ‘letter box’ of the Confraternity Rooms, St. Patrick Street, Ballybay or by phoning the Freephone number 1800 677 777.

The winners of the Ballybay Pearse Brothers National Lotto Bonus Ball draw for Saturday 13th February were Barry Duffy, Jess Mc Cabe and Eileen Brennan. Bonus Ball still available. €5 to play – 47 numbers. €80 winner.
Contact Barry 087 2589371  Teresa 086 1691304 Brian 085 7117215

Valentine Flowers are available at Smyths Newsagents in the Square. You can also have the flowers delivered (Strict Covid-19 precautions will apply). For further information contact Therese at 0876853316

The friends and family of Marie Fitzpatrick (nee Toner) would like to wish her a very happy Birthday. The popular local lady celebrated her 60th Birthday on Monday last.

The winners of the Ballybay Pearse Brothers National Lotto Bonus Ball draw for Saturday 6th February were Shane Monaghan, Francie Lennon and Eoghan Rutledge. Bonus Ball still available. €5 to play – 47 numbers. €80 winner.
Contact Barry 087 2589371 Teresa 086 1691304 Brian 085 7117215

Local man Rory Mc Atavie posted an article on the ‘Ballybay and its People’ facebook page last week. Entitled ‘I REMEMBER’ it has attracted well over 150 comments and certainly evoked lots of very fond memories of growing up in Ballybay. The piece is printed below – enjoy and reminisce I REMEMBER........

Over the last few months, the Healthy Monaghan committee, along with a variety of our partners in the community, voluntary and statutory sector have been continuing to try and support the members of our communities during these difficult COVID times. A great variety of initiatives and programmes have been ongoing to try and provide ways in which people can continue to look after their physical and mental wellbeing. At a local level, all this great work happening is supporting the aim of the national Keep Well Campaign which is encouraging people to add healthy, helpful habits to their daily routines.

With so much good stuff happening we thought it would be an idea to try and pull that altogether into a calendar of events. Although at the minute a lot of that is happening online, its still a great opportunity for  people to tap into some wonderful events.

If your organisation or department has anything planned between now and the end of March, which you would like to promote to the wider public, can you please complete the attached and return to Fiona McEntee at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. before Friday 12^th February. We will then work on creating a calendar of events that can be shared through our social media accounts, in local press and radio and also on our Keep Well calendar. If you would like to check out some events already planned go to: https://monaghan.ie/keep-well/ Browse our calendar or click into one of the 5 themes of the Keep Well campaign where you will find out more information of interest.

Monaghan Keep Well Events Register PDF >> 

Monaghan Integrated Development CLG in conjunction with DSP are running a Job Club for unemployed people online over 4 mornings from 10am until 11-30am. The Jobs Club covers Job Searching, C.V. preparation, Cover Letter Writing, Interview Techniques and Mock Interview. Fot further information please contact Teresa McCahey on 042-9748090/086-8105958 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Last week we reported that the annual Tullycorbet Parish Pilgrimage to Lourdes will not take place this year owing to the Covid-19 pandemic however the annual Diocesan Pilgrimage will be available virtually from 5 to 11 July. For further details check out the diocese website at: https://www.clogherdiocese.ie/

The winners of the Ballybay Pearse Brothers National Lotto Bonus Ball draw for Saturday 30th January were Darren Smyth, Stephen Lennon and David Moen. Bonus Ball still available. €5 to play – 47 numbers. €80 winner.
Contact Barry 087 2589371 Teresa 086 1691304 Brian 085 7117215

Last Wednesday’s streamed 10-30am mass from St. Patrick’s was broadcast live on the RTE News TV Channel. Fr. Owen Joe Mc Eneaney was the celebrant and Martin Mc Cabe provided the music. The mass has received lots of positive comments especially the fact that Monsignor Mc Sorley got a special mention.

Ballybay Central School has began accepting applications for the 2021/22 school year yesterday. Applications for admission to the school can be made up until 26th February 2021. Applicants will be notified if their application has been successful on 19th March. There are 12 places available for Junior Infants. Further information, applications forms and the admissions policy are all available at https://www.ballybaycns.com/

It is with deep regret that we report the sad passing of Marie Durkan (nee Moen) formerly of St. Patrick’s Street. Marie passed away in the USA on Monday morning last. May her gentle soul rest in peace.

The annual Tullycorbet Parish Pilgrimage to Lourdes will not take place this year owing to the Covid-19 pandemic. Please God things will improve and we will be able to return to Lourdes in 2022.

Enrolment for the 2021/22 school year will begin on 1st February and run until 28th February. Enrolment forms and copies of the admission policy can be downloaded from the schools website http://www.scoileanna.ie/ Alternatively the form can be requested from This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or collected at the school.

Owing to the current Covid-19 crisis the Ballybay Cancer Society would like people to know that they are available to provide financial assistance to local people who have been diagnosed with cancer. The Society also provide a transport service to hospital for treatment. If you or someone you know have any queries about how the Society could help, then please do not hesitate to contact any committee member. The Committee are Sally McAviney (0872092013), Briege Duffy (0872367139), Mary McGinnity (0863213578), Charlie Mills (0429741372), Teresa Murnaghan (0429748078) and Mary Duffy (0877731416). Transport Services can be discussed by contacting Mobile (0860235333), Ann Keenan (0876437343) or Bernadette Duffy (0861061277).

The Pearse Brothers National Lotto Bouns Ball winners for Saturday 16th January were Tom Ward, Patricia Mc Cabe and Hanna McKenna. Bonus Ball still available. €5 to play – 47 numbers. €80 for the winner. Contact Barry 087 2589371 or Teresa 086 1691304.

Monaghan County Council is to add the Ballybay to Cloghan Road (L3403) to the salting list for this winter. While it sounds like good news for the area, the addition is only temporary as the road leads to the HSE Covid 19 Testing Centre at the County Monaghan GAA Training Ground. It will likely be removed from the list next winter.

On the 30th January, Ballybay Pearse Brothers and the community of Ballybay will be raising “Awareness” for both “Dementia” & “Mental Health” not just within the community but beyond, to families, friends and loved ones through this surreal time! Please feel free to join the club between 6am and 6pm to Run/Walk/Cycle within your own Covid 5km.  You can send your photos to the Pearse Brothers facebook page to help us raise awareness and support each other through these difficult times! All activities must be carried out in accordance with Government Covid 19rules/guidelines. If  you would like further information or to book a slot contact Chairman Barry Mc Skean 087 2589371 or any committee member. There will also be regular updates on the clubs facebook page. Donations can also be made to any Committee member or on the Klubfunder link with reference "Dementia5K" - https://www.klubfunder.com/Clubs/Ballybay_Pearse_Brothers

The Christmas Lights Committee has decided that the lights will remain up and lit until 1st February 2021. The idea behind the additional weeks is two-fold. Firstly they are to remember those who have passed away during the current pandemic and secondly it is remind people that they can look forward to a brighter future now that the vaccine is being rolled out. The gesture has been met with widespread approval.

During the current level 5 lockdown the local library service is offering a home delivery service. If you are interested in availing of this then check out https://monaghan.ie/library/

With the country now moved to a level 5 lockdown the celebration of all masses have now moved online. The only exception is funerals were 10 mourners can attend. Through the parish webcam the following 9 masses are available to parishioners.
Monday – St. Patrick’s 7-30pm
Tuesday – St. Patrick’s 9-30am
Wednesday – St. Patrick’s 9-30am
Thursday – St. Patrick’s 9-30am
Friday - St. Patrick’s 7-30pm
Saturday – St. Patrick’s, Vigil 6-30pm
Sunday – Tullycorbet 9-30am
Sunday – Ballintra 11am
Sunday – St. Patrick’s 12-15pm

All masses from St. Patrick’s can be viewed via the following link:  https://www.churchservices.tv/ballybay

while masses from Tullycorbet can be viewed https://www.churchservices.tv/tullycorbet

and masses from Ballintra at https://www.churchservices.tv/ballintraballybay

It is with deep regret that we report the sad passing of Brendan Macklin and Hughie Walshe. Brendan was originally from Shanmullagh, Tullycorbett but has been resident at Loch Mor Avenue, Ballybay for over forty years. Brendan passed away in Cavan General Hospital on 6th January. Hughie Walshe was a former resident of Monkey Row, St. Patrick Street and passed away on 8th January. May both Brendan and Hughie Rest in Peace.

Would you be interested in joining the Ballybay Tidy Towns Group? The time you commit is your choice. It can be just one hour on a day that suits you. Obviously the group won’t be meeting in a group for some time, but if you feel you could do a litter pick or adopt an area in the town that you could maintain it would be a huge help this year as they enter the Tidy Town Competition again. The group would also welcome your ideas for improvements that could be carried out and you can message them on their facebook page. It’s a new year so maybe volunteering some of your time could be a New Years’ resolution.

An Irish company based in Cork is urgently seeking experienced Aran Hand Knitters to help them complete an order of Aran hand knitted Hats, Scarves, Jumpers and Cardigans for a company in America for Autumn/ Winter 2021.
All you need is your own needles as all wool will be supplied. If you would like to find out more information please contact Helen Moynihan on 087 2231919 or send her an email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . This work is not limited to this year, if you are successful, more work is envisaged for 2022. Made popular recently by Taylor Swift the Aran Jumper is enjoying a revival on an unprecedented scale in the US.

Tullycorbet CCÉ is hoping to start Adult music classes in the coming term! Classes will be conducted online, similar to our junior classes and will be available on a variety of instruments. All those interested should contact Francis on 087 2395396 or check out the Tullycorbet CCE facebook page.

It is hoped to have a roll up on Boxing Day weather permitting from 11am to 1pm. As numbers will be limited due to Covid it would be appreciated if you could book. A few members have requested that we open for a few days during the festive season, seeing that there is no indoor bowling at present. For more information on this ring Raymond on 0868875697.

Agnes, Majella, Patricia, Sally and Deirdre would like to sincerely thank everyone who recently donated to and shopped at the DD Pop Up Shop. The final figure raised is €5,825 which will go to the Ballybay Cancer Society.

Cahans shop, located in Birch Court, Main Street, Ballybay will reopen on 5 January (although this may change according to Government guidelines regarding retail). Covid 19 regulations will continue to apply, e.g., hand sanitising, face masks, the number of customers at one time limited, and social distancing. Donations for sale and/or recycling MUST NOT be left outside the shop when the shop is not open. Cahans Meeting House Committee is grateful to all who have visited the shop and made donations.

James Flanagan has had his drone out on a night flight and has produced a fantastic video of the Christmas lights. James has put his footage to some wonderful music and produced a fine 2 minute video which is well worth a watch. The video is introduced by Gerry Mc Elroy who asks people to share the video with local people who can’t get home this year. It can be viewed at the Ballybay and its People facebook page.

Well done to the students from Scoil Eanna who had a Christmas jumper day on Monday last. The jumper day was a fundraising event and the local St. Vincent de Paul Society are now €310 better off. Well done to all the pupils who will be rewarded on Friday when Santa comes to visit.

Well done to all who contributed to the recent ‘Cash for Clobber’ initiative.  Over a tonne of clothes were received which results in approximately €400 for the school.
Congratulations to David Burgess in 5th Class who was awarded 3rd prize in the recent Credit Union Art Competition.  Unfortunately due to the current restrictions there won’t be a presentation night but members of the Credit Union will present David with his prize at school.
After more than 10 years’ service to the school as caretaker, Denis Parker has retired.  The school would like to thank Denis for all his work throughout that time, and wish him and his family well.
The School closed at 12.00 on Tuesday last and will reopen on   Wednesday 6th January 2021.

Most of the committee members turned up during the week at the outdoor green in the Town Park to have a tidy up. It is hoped to have a roll up on Boxing Day weather permitting from 11am to 1pm. As numbers will be limited due to Covid it would be appreciated if you could book. A few members have requested that we open for a few days during the festive season, seeing that there is no indoor bowling at present. For more information on this ring Raymond on 0868875697.

The organisers of last weekends pop up shop would like to thank all that gave clothes. The shop had 3 great days of trading. Thanks also to all that bought and donated. There is no final figure yet however remember that all monies raised will be donated to the Ballybay Cancer Society and the final figure will be announced shortly.

Christmas this year will be different. The challenge parishes face, as a result of the necessary Covid 19 restrictions is trying to find a workable solution. Bishop Duffy has offered the following option for this season. Families can attend mass at some point during the 12 days of Christmas – from Christmas eve until the Feast of the Epiphany on 6th January. Spreading the mass over the twelve days will help to alleviate the pressure around numbers who can attend each mass. Also to help the issue additional masses will be said. On Christmas Eve there will be mass in Tullycorbet and Ballintra at 5pm while in St. Patrick’s there will be mass at 6-30pm and 8-30pm. On Christmas Day there will be  mass in Tullycorbet and Ballintra at 10am and in St. Patrick’s at 8-30am and 12-15pm. The parish asks that parishioners continue to respect the helpers.  All masses from St. Patrick’s can be viewed via the following link: https://www.churchservices.tv/tullycorbet
It is also hoped that webcams will be installed in Tullycorbet and Ballintra before Christmas.

With Christmas just 3 weeks away the local Chamber of Commerce are appealing to everyone to shop local and support local business at this difficult time. The level 5 restrictions have been tough on businesses and if everyone could consider buying their Christmas presents locally this would have a very positive effect on the community and economy. Remember that local vouchers are also available and would make great presents for anyone.

Cahans Meeting House Charity shop is now open at Birch Court, Main Street and it would be very much appreciated if patron would face masks when shopping and obey the social distancing rules. Donations are welcome however they MUST NOT be left outside the shop when the shop is not open. Proceeds will go toward the restoration of Cahan’s Meeting House as a community resource.

Please note that St. Brigid’s LGFA 2020 AGM will take place online on Sunday evening next December 20th at 7.00pm. To take part in this meeting you will need to forward your e-mail address to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. so that the link can be forwarded to you. Alternatively, please phone or text 086 8358136 to request link details.

A pop up shop in aid of Ballybay Cancer Society will be available this Friday and Saturday 4th & 5th December between 10am and 6pm on the Main Street. The shop will be stocking a very large selection of ladies clothes. This is a great opportunity to get something new for Christmas and help a very worthwhile charity at the same time.

If you are looking for a Christmas present for the Mc Cabe in your life, a new publication might be just the thing for you. The Clan Mc Cabe Society has put together a comprehensive history of the Mc Cabes from the earliest times up to the twentieth century. With quite a few Mc Cabes in the Ballybay area this might just make a wonderful gift. The book entitled ‘’A History of the Mc Cabes’’ is available in Smyths Newsagents Ballybay, Keegans in Carrickmacross, Daybreak in Shercock and Hannigans, Cootehill.

From Tuesday the public celebration of Mass can now take place. Parishioners can now attend any of the following masses and it will count as Sunday mass.
Monday, St. Patrick’s, 7-30pm
Tuesday, St. Patrick’s, 9-30am
Wednesday, St. Patrick’s, 9-30am
Thursday, St. Patrick’s, 9-30am
Friday, St. Patrick’s, 7-30pm
Saturday, St. Patrick’s, Vigil 6-30pm
Sunday, Tullycorbet, 9-30am
Sunday, Ballintra, 11am
Sunday, St. Patrick’s, 12-15pm
All of the above masses can be viewed via the following link: https://www.churchservices.tv/tullycorbet
Thanks to the lifting of the level 5 restrictions the priests will make their First Friday visits tomorrow.

Aughnamullen man Gary Owen Mc Mahon who now lives in Mayo was the referee for last weekend’s TG4 Ladies All Ireland semi final between Dublin and Armagh in Kingspan Breffni Park. The former Monaghan and Ulster whistler had a fine game. The match itself was won by Dublin 3-13 to 3-8 and the excellent refereeing by Gary Owen helped make it an exciting affair.

Cuan Mhuire will be having a monster Christmas raffle. Look out for tickets available to buy locally. More details next week.

Is a programme for SME Owners & Managers of Retail and Service Businesses to assist recovery from the impacts of BREXIT and COVID-19 and to improve the performance of their business over the coming years. With a number of highly valuable strands, this well-established programme is designed for busy business managers and will run over 16 weeks.
Free of Charge for approved businesses but places strictly limited, and registration as soon as possible is advised
Please request a programme brochure from This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call Optimum Results on 042 9333033

See Superior Retailing Programme 2020/21 PDF here >>

www.localenterprise.ie/Monaghan

The turning on of the Christmas Lights will take place on Friday 27th November. This year owing to the COVID-19 pandemic the lights switch on will be different. The committee must act responsibly and for that reason there will be no big switch on and Santa will not be in the Square to give presents to the local children. The lights will be turned on Friday evening and will remain in place until the new year.

As winter settles in around us and Christmas draws near, our local SVP Conference is concerned about families who will face impossible choices this year. They will struggle with the decision of heating the house or having Christmas dinner.
SVP will be able to help alleviate the struggle families facing these impossible choices, thanks to the generosity of people in parishes who continue to support the SVP Collections throughout the year.
As many are aware, owing to parishes not able to have people gathering for Sunday Masses, the monthly SVP Collection has been missed and this has resulted in a drop in finds. That said, the introduction of the SVP Envelope in August has resulted in many parishioners forwarding generous donations to SVP and for this we are most grateful.
SVP Nationally will shortly launch its Annual Christmas Appeal, titled ‘Impossible Choices’, with the SVP Collection Sunday, fixed for 13th December. Even though Covid-19 restrictions are expected to ease in the lead into Christmas, numbers gathering for masses will be much reduced as people continue adhering to social distancing guidelines – and so the local branch of SVP are once again encouraging parishioners to make further use of the SVP Envelope (available in church porches) by way of facilitating the generous Christmas donations that people are in the habit of making at this time of year.
If you are in need of assistance you can contact us by writing to SVP C/O Confraternity Rooms, St. Patrick Street, Ballybay of Freephone 180077777, at latest by Thursday 10th December. In either case our SVP volunteers will follow up with a short visit to see how best we may assist.
While SVP always wants to be able to respond to calls for help, it is important that nobody seeks help unless they are genuinely in need of it.

During the current level 5 lockdown the local library service is offering a home delivery service. If you are interested in availing of this then check out: https://monaghan.ie/library/

In view of the decision by Government to move the country to level 5, the celebration of all masses is now restricted to online only. Thanks to the recently installed webcam at St. Patrick’s, Ballybay the following seven masses are available using the following link: https://www.churchservices.tv/tullycorbet
Monday, St. Patrick’s, 7-30pm
Tuesday, St. Patrick’s, 9-30am
Wednesday, St. Patrick’s, 9-30am
Thursday, St. Patrick’s, 9-30am
Friday, St. Patrick’s, 7-30pm
Saturday, St. Patrick’s, Vigil 6-30pm
Sunday, St. Patrick’s, 12-15pm
There will be no Sunday masses in Ballintra and Tullycorbet until further notice. St. Patrick’s will remain open for private prayer and confessions will be heard on Saturdays at 12noon.

Latton Bawn Historical Group Calendars are now on sale at just €5. They available in McElroy’s Shop (Latton), Smyths Newsagents (Ballybay) and The Corner Shop (Ballybay). You can also Email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Calendars can be posted worldwide.

With Christmas just 5 weeks away the local Chamber of Commerce are appealing to everyone to shop local and support local business at this difficult time. The level 5 restrictions have been tough on businesses and if everyone could consider buying their Christmas presents locally this would have a very positive effect on the community and economy. Remember that local vouchers are also available and would make great presents for anyone.

The Pearse Brothers Club AGM will be held on Saturday 28th November at 6pm. The meeting will be held using Microsoft Teams. This will be first time the club’s AGM is held remotely.

On the weekend of 23rd and 24th October Double Dees pop up shop will be selling nearly new quality ladies, mens and children’s clothes in aid of the Ballybay Cancer Society. The shop will be located at 16 Main Street, Ballybay and your support would be very much appreciated.

Ballybay Tidy towns Committee have put in a new flower bed at the Peace Bridge leading from Loch Mor Avenue to the Lake walk. This new bed is full of plants to attract insects and bees and has been designated as a pollinator area. Additional work is planned and will hopefully be carried out soon.

In view of the decision by Government to move the country to level 3 from 7th October for 3 weeks, the celebration of all masses is now restricted to online only. Thanks to the recently installed webcam at St. Patrick’s, Ballybay the following seven masses are available using the following link: https://www.churchservices.tv/tullycorbet
Monday, St. Patrick’s, 7-30pm
Tuesday, St. Patrick’s, 9-30am
Wednesday, St. Patrick’s, 9-30am
Thursday, St. Patrick’s, 9-30am
Friday, St. Patrick’s, 7-30pm
Saturday, St. Patrick’s, Vigil 6-30pm
Sunday, St. Patrick’s, 12-15pm
There will be no Sunday masses in Ballintra and Tullycorbet for the next 3 weeks. St. Patrick’s will remain open for private prayer and confessions will be heard on Saturdays at 12noon.

A US based group who are studying genealogical migration of Duffy families from Ireland directly to the USA or to the USA via the UK are offering free DNA tests. Their aim is to try and link cousins across the ocean with people in their ancestral homeland and pinpoint were their ancestors emigrated from. Given the vast number of Duffy’s in County Monaghan and advances in DNA testing it is now possible to trace a man’s Y-DNA, which is passed from father to son. It is also possible to determine if people have a common ancestor.
If you are interested in participating in the DUFFY STUDY you can email Tom Duffy at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 001-802-309-8116.

The recent shave and dye by Ballybay Community Creche employees Tracey Connolly and Jason Mc Andrews has raised the fantastic total of €4001-46c. This has been split between the Creche and the Ballybay Cancer Society. Jason and Tracey would like to thank most sincerely everyone who donated to their event.

Congratulations to Patricia Gormley, Scissors Hairdressers who was the winner of the Tidy Towns Best kept premises. The prize was sponsored by Gerry Mc Elory who also made the presentation to Patricia.

Ballybay and its People facebook page was hopping last weekend thanks to former native Emmet Mc Aviney who now lives in Kilkenny. Emmet put the following on the page – “Hi all. After a few recent “Hello From” posts, how about we all post “Hello From” where we are to see how far the diaspora from Ballybay has spread? I’ll go 1st 😃 If we can post them in the Ballybay And It’s People page then everyone can see. Thx”.
Within 24 hours the page had 150 comments from 21 counties in Ireland and 14 countries wordlwide. Ballybay people could be found in several US States, Wales, England, New Zealand, Australia, Scotland, Germany, Luxembourg, Cyprus, Norway, Sweden, France, Thailand and Canada. Many of the respondents had nice messages especially good wish ones for the Pearse Brothers team in last weeks County Final. For a small town its people are well travelled.

The Ballybay Honda 50 Run in aid of Ballybay Cancer Society will take place on Sunday 27th September. Registration will take place from 10am at Cuan Mhuire and the 50mile run/spin will commence at 12noon. Light refreshments will be served before and after. Entry fee is just €20. Further information is available from Gerry at 0861616434.

Congratulations to Tullycorbett CCE who took part in last Friday night’s Culture Night. Presented by Francis Mc Mahon the local musicians played live at the Iontas Centre, Castleblayney from 8pm until 9pm. their performance was broadcast live and shared to Pittsburgh’s Irish diaspora via the Ireland Institute of Pittsburgh.

Massive congratulations are due to Ballybay Community College student Paidi Walsh who received 9 H 1’s in his Leaving Certificate. Paidi like thousands of students in the locality logged into the online portal on Monday morning but he was lost for words when he realised he had received full marks in all subjects. Speaking on Northern Sound radio he described his results as “Just Amazing”. He now intends to go on to study mathematics in Trinity College in Dublin. Congratulations are due to all the students who received their results earlier this week.

The residents of Dromore View (houses located beside the Community College) have issued a request that parents collecting their children from the school do not park in their estate or at the entrance. Some residents in the small estate which has six houses had been blocked in last week owing to parents of pupils parking in the estate and at the entrance.

Tullycorbet CCE are back in action offering tuition in a wide range of traditional instruments. Due to Cocid-19 guidelines numbers will be limited therefore it is essential to book in at advance. Classes will commence in Doohamlet Community Centre on 14th September (5 to 6pm) and in Tullycorbet Community Centre on 16th September (4pm to 7pm). An online option is also available for those who would like to avail of it. Enquiries and bookings to 087 2395396.

The last major outdoor bowling competition of the season will take place on Saturday next. There will be preliminary rounds played tonight Thursday and also tomorrow Friday. All games will start at 7pm with Saturday’s finals getting underway at 11am. The following is a list of skips Dennis Mc Elroy v Brendan Mc Gahey Philip Gibson v Terry Clark Paddy Mc Elvaney v Seamus Smyth Brendan Magennis v Shane Magennis Ted Murphy v Raymond Steenson Paudge Cassidy v Kevin Mc Cabe Geraldine Sherlock v Ben Duffy

Ballybay native Gerry Finlay who lives in the USA has been hosting an annual golf outing for many years and has raised thousands of dollars for charity. Some of those to benefit included the Mater Foundation, Ballybay Cancer Society, Cry Ireland and Ballybay Pearse Brothers. This year’s outing is taking place in Winwatch, Long Island on Monday 14th September. If you have family or friends in the USA especially in the New York area who might like to play or perhaps donate could you get them to contact Gerry at 6317862994.

Ballybay will take on Scotstown in the Monaghan Senior Club final after defeating Inniskeen 4-19 to 1-26 after extra time in Clones last Sunday. the sides were level four times in the second half with the game finishing 3-13 to 1-19. In the end it was Shane Mc Guinness’s extra time goal proved that proved the difference. Tweeting after the game former Monaghan star Dick Clerkin said, “I can safely say I have never witnessed a game of scoring like it…Incredible effort by both sides, right to the very end”. Ballybay were last in the County Final in 2018. Check out the sports pages for a full report on this dramatic encounter.

Tullycorbet Community Development Association are one of eight Monaghan community-based organisations to be awarded special funding this week. The funding award of €4, 571 was announced by Minister for Health, Stephen Donnelly TD. The funding from the Dormant Accounts Fund is designed to support community and voluntary organisations, charities and social enterprises that are experiencing financial difficulties as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Monaghan Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) announces an additional phase (Round 2) to the Community Enhancement Programme (CEP) for 2020. The CEP provides capital grants to community groups with the aim of enhancing facilities in disadvantaged areas.

In June 2020, the LCDC launched the CEP aimed at all community groups with a fund in the county of €55,451 (Round 1).
The LCDC is now implementing the €109,947 fund (Round 2), which will provide capital grants towards the maintenance, improvement and upkeep of community centres and community buildings in county Monaghan. Similar expenditure on other community facilities will also be allowed.

This funding is being made available under the Government's July stimulus package, and is targeted at measures that stimulate local economies, while enhancing facilities in disadvantaged areas.

This fund will be administrated in a manner similar to the CEP (Round 1)but with a later closing date. Applications received under Round 1 in respect of community centres and community buildings will be automatically redirected to Round 2 and not considered in Round 1.
Capital expenditure on adaptions or equipment needed as a result of COVID-19 may be eligible, depending on work being completed.

Applications should be made to the LCDC by 12 noon, Monday 5th October , 2020.

General Conditions to the Scheme:

Projects or elements of project or capital nature may be funded.

Organisations eligible for funding include:

Any not for profit community or voluntary group can apply.
Commercial organisations and individuals are not eligible for funding

The following is a non-exhaustive list of capital projects that could receive funding under the programme:

Development /renovation of community centres
Once off maintenance of premises. this does not include regular routine maintenance
Community amenities
Development of youth clubs or facilities
Development of sports/recreation facilities
Improvement to town parks and common areas and spaces
CCTV equipment
Public realm improvements
Streetscaping
Development of play/recreation spaces
Energy efficiency type projects
Purchase of equipment
Adaptions or equipment needed as a result of COVID-19

Note: requests for assistance usually exceed the funds available. Applicants should be aware that the programme is likely to be oversubscribed. Therefore, all applications fulfilling the conditions may not be successful or may be for a lesser amount.

Applications will be evaluated by the LCDC to ensure eligibility and consistence with the Local Economic and Community Plan 2016-2021 (LECP) which can be viewed at the following link.
http://monaghan.ie/communitydevelopment/local-economic-and-community-plan-lecp/

In line with Government guidelines all meetings at Cuan Mhuire, Ballybay have been suspended until 13th September. George and his team are sorry for any inconvenience and ask that everyone stay safe in these difficult times.

The end of Summer pairs bowling competition went of very well last weekend. There was a full turn out on Thursday and Friday with all games being played to a finish on Saturday. Once again it is the combined talents of Brendan and Shane Magennis who overcame the stiff opposition of Paddy Mc Elvaney and John Sloan by one shot to get the win. Brendan and Shane were presented with their prizes by Raymond Steenson who went on to thank the bowlers for putting on such a great display of bowling on such a perfect day.
The next competition will be a triples tournament starting on Thursday 10th September and concluding on Saturday 12th September. All teams to be entered by Wednesday 9th September by ringing Benny at 087 4152392 as there is a limit of 16 teams in this competition. So now is the time to get your name on the draw sheet.
The entire committee of the bowling club would like to offer their condolences to the Gibson family on the death of their mother who passed away last weekend. Philip and John have both been members of the Ballybay club for many years.

Ballybay native Gerry Finlay who lives in the USA has been hosting an annual golf outing for many years and has raised thousands of dollars for charity. Some of those to benefit included the Mater Foundation, Ballybay Cancer Society, Cry Ireland and Ballybay Pearse Brothers. This year’s outing is taking place in Winwatch, Long Island on Monday 14th September. If you have family or friends in the USA especially in the New York area who might like to play or perhaps donate could you get them to contact Gerry at 6317862994.

Earlier this week the Government announced an allocation of €1, 172, 275 to Monaghan County Council for various works. Included in the allocation is monies specific to Ballybay. €150, 000 has been allocated for the resurfacing of the Main Street. The Town Park will receive a €20, 000 worth of public lighting whilst the footpath and lightning on the Monaghan Road are to receive upgrades to the tune of €55, 000.

Ballybay Pearse Brothers will play their county semi final this Sunday 6th September in Clones at 5pm. In the decider they will meet Inniskeen. The other semi final between Scotstown and Carrickmacross will also be played in Clones with the earlier throw in time of 3pm. As no spectators are allowed at the game they will both be streamed live. Check out the Monaghan GAA website for further information.

A massive thanks is due to members of the local ICA group who made a large number of face masks for the local health care workers during the early stages of lockdown. Members of the group supplied material, sewed the masks and then distributed them. Special thanks are due to Betty Steenson, Marie Tomany, Lizzy Allister, Marian Gilmour and Martina Wright.