A Public Consultation morning on the proposed Master Plan for Ballybay Town Park will take place at Ballybay Community Creche on Wednesday 25^th April, 2018 from 8.30am-10am. Monaghan Co. Council has appointed a Consultant to prepare the Master Plan and concept plans will be on display on the morning.

Members of the public are encouraged to come along and have their say on what amenities they would like to see in the Town Park.  Further details can be obtained from the offices of Ballybay-Clones Municipal District at 047-51018.

A Public Consultation evening on the preparation of a Public Realm and Economic Plan for Ballybay will be held in Ballybay Community College on Monday, 30^th April, 2018 from 4pm-8pm. Members of the public are encouraged to drop in and have their say as to how the town of Ballybay should be developed over the coming years.

Monaghan Co. Council has appointed Consultants, The Paul Hogarth Company, to prepare the Public Realm and Economic Plan and they will be working in close consultation with the local community. Further details can be obtained from the offices of Ballybay-Clones Municipal District at 047-51018.

Cruinniú na nÓg aims to celebrate and encourage participation by children and young people in culture and creativity in their communities through a rich variety of activities including performances, theatre, art and music, creative workshops, readings and screenings, special events and much more.

Saturday 23^rd June, 2018 will be a national day of creativity for children and young people.

Attached are the details for our local event which will take place in the Garage Theatre. Please pass on to any young people/ youth groups who might be interested in registering to perform.

See poster here.

Friday 13th was lucky for Ballybay Tidy Towns when the children from Scoil Eanna and Ballybay Central School took part  in a litter pick around the Town Park area of the town.  They were all very eager and collected lots of litter. On Saturday another group of volunteers gathered at the square and residents from the Cootehill Rd area got up and out and by the end of the day a skip was filled to capacity.   Students from Ballybay Community College will do a litter pick this week. Speaking after the litter picks Chairman Martin Gleeson said, "I am delighted with the efforts of the school children on Friday and our volunteers on Saturday who gave up their time to do some work which will benefit the whole community. Thanks also to the team at Hilltop Cafe for the much welcomed refreshments on Saturday morning".

Ballybay Tidy Towns Committee members wish to thank everybody for such a great effort.  Over the next few weeks we will be installing new planters, painting and upkeep of various areas. We are submitting our application to the National Tidy Towns competition, so we will need your help to make Ballybay a Tidy Town.  We would like to encourage all Businesses and private dwellings to do what you can to tidy up your premises and any entry ways beside your premises.

If you see any work that needs to be carried out, let us know and we will try to do what we can.  Our mobile number is  083 4284248 if you want to leave a message.

The Latton Bawn Historical Group are unveiling a plaque to commemorate Professor James Drumm at Derrygooney National School on Monday 7th May at 3pm. James great granddaughter Antonia Drumm will unveil the plaque in the presence of Minister Heather Humphries. Everyone is welcome to attend and there will be refreshments served. Professor James Drumm was born in 1897. He was educated at Derrygooney National School where his mother taught. He received his secondary education at St. Macartan’s in Monaghan and then he received a degree in chemistry from UCD. He spent three years working with a chemical company in England, before returning to Ireland, where his first invention, in Dublin, was a fine quality soap. Then he worked to keep peas green after they were canned. In 1925, he attended a lecture on batteries that sparked his interest in the subject and he began developing an alkaline battery cell that could be rapidly charged and discharged. The Latton born academic then invented the ‘Drumm Traction Battery’. This zinc-nikelalkaline battery was successfully employed to power electric trains in Ireland for nearly 20 years. His pioneering electric train was Ireland’s first green revolution on the railways. James Drumm was also a member of the Senate of the National University of Ireland and in 1935 was appointed Vice-President of the Federation of Irish Industries. He was the first to import stainless steel into Ireland and was a member of the Board of the Emergency Scientific Research Bureau. He died in 1974.

The Ballybay Pearse Brothers Presentation night takes place on Saturday 28th of April in the Pearse Brothers Centre. Presentations on the night will be made to the victorious Ward Cup winning team of 2017. There will be 3 inductees into the Hall of Fame Paddy Ward, Paddy Kerr and Martin O'Kane. The 1957 championship team will also be remembered on the night. Tickets available from any committee member.

Hard luck to the Community Girls U16 team which were defeated in the Ulster final by St. Clare’s, Ballyjamesduff 3-4 to 0-10. There was some consolation for the team as Colleen Hughes was named player of the match.

A tractor, bike and car run in aid of the Kevin Bell Repatriation Fund and in the memory of Joey Mooney will be held on Sunday 29th April at Drumhowan GAA Club. Registration will start at 2-30pm and the run will begin at 4pm. Refreshments will be served afterwards. Donations will be greatly appreciated and further information is available from Gerard at 086 1616434.

A reminder of the outdoor bowls fun tournament that takes place on 7th May on the Ballybay outdoor green in the Town Park. This is in aid of Karen Mc Kenna who has to go Russia for treatment for MS. As we are limited to 24 rinks, now is the time to get your name on the draw sheet by phoning Cora on 0860619186.

Good luck to the Under 12 Outdoor Soccer Team who will be playing matches in the next few weeks. Team - Eoin Brady,  Eanna Curran,  Adam Dixon, Simon Du Plessis, Stephen Duffy, Jerome Lavelle, B (U12) Dara MC Elmeel, Nathan Mc Dermott,  Andrew Mullen, Finian O Neill,  Martin Quinn,  Oisin Quinn,  Eoin Sheridan,  Caolan Treanor,  Sean Ward and Avon Wylie. The team is managed by Martin Sheridan and Peter Ward.

Sr. Margaret Mc Ginnity is celebrating the Golden Jubilee of her religious profession on Saturday 21st April with a Mass and thanksgiving in Ballintra at 7-30pm. This will be followed by food, music dancing. No cards or presents please. Any small donations if desired would be gratefully accepted to support people who live in poverty at home or abroad. All welcome.

On Sunday last local man Marco Lennon couldn’t believe his eyes. At Tussy Cross there was two inches of snow while at the same time the sun was shining in nearby Ballybay. Further out the road in Tullycorbett thunder and lightning was reported. Evidence of the snow can be seen in Marco’s picture which is posted on the Ballybay and Its People FACEBOOK page. Speaking about the freakish weather Marco said, “You’d have to see it to believe it”.

A tractor, bike and car run in aid of the Kevin Bell Repatriation Fund and in the memory of Joey Mooney will be held on Sunday 29th April at Drumhowan GAA Club. Registration will start at 2-30pm and the run will begin at 4pm. Refreshments will be served afterwards. Donations will be greatly appreciated and further information is available from Gerard at 086 1616434.

A public consultation workshop on the Draft Co. Monaghan Development Plan will take place on Wednesday 18th April in the Wetlands centre from 6pm until 8pm. Members of the public can drop in and speak with a planner. The Draft Development Plan is available to view in Ballybay Branch Library. Anyone wishing to make a submission can do so until the 25th May.

A Church gate collection will take place on Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd of April in Tullycorbet Parish. We asked if you would please give your support to this cause. Thank you and God bless.

A reminder of the outdoor bowls fun tournament that takes place on 7th May on the Ballybay outdoor green in the Town Park. This is in aid of Karen Mc Kenna who has to go Russia for treatment for MS. As we are limited to 24 rinks, now is the time to get your name on the draw sheet by phoning Cora on 0860619186. The draw for the local league has been made and will be distributed to the participating teams this weekend. This Friday night is the Zone dinner dance in the Four Seasons Hotel with music provided by Big Pat. Presentations will be made to Ballybay maroon who went up to Division One and also Ballybay white who were also promoted to Division 3. Well done to all concerned.

Ballybay Social Club meets again for April on Friday 13th in the Cuan Mhuire Centre. No need to be superstitious about the day and date, everyone is welcome to come. Have a chat, a craic, tea/coffee at elevenses with full lunch at 1pm and generally have a good time. Last day there was an entertaining game of Bocci, a simple floor game of small bowls which everyone thoroughly enjoyed. Next time there is something different to participate in, perhaps it`s music and dance, cards or bingo or light exercises. So come along and be part of the fun. Subscription is just €6 which includes a free raffle. Any queries please contact 086 8818531.

In conjunction with National Spring Clean Month, we will be holding a Tidy Town Spring Clean Weekend on Friday 13th and Saturday 14th April. We will be working with the local schools on Friday 13th and then anybody who is willing to help us on Saturday Morning at 9.30 am meeting at the square. Or if it suits you to do a litter pick around your area at any other time on the Friday and Saturday contact us about getting bags and litter pickers. This is a great opportunity to tidy up our town after the long winter. Please come out and help us to tidy up our town. You will be finished by 11.30am and Tea/Coffee and treats supplied after the pick. We can be contacted on our mobile 083 4284248.

Monaghan Co. Council Forward Planning Team will be running a series of Workshops after the Easter break to allow members of the public and interest groups to discuss matters relating to the Draft Monaghan County Development Plan 2019-2025 which is currently on public display up until the 25th of May 2018. The workshop locations are ; Monaghan Town , Carrickmacross, Castleblayney, Clones and Ballybay. The workshops will facilitate members of the public who have any questions or concerns in relation to the contents of the Draft Plan or want to engage in the Development Plan process at this stage.

See Draft Monaghan County Development Plan 2019-2025 PDF here >>

A big thank you to the people from Ballybay and surrounding areas who donated so willingly and generously to make our Daffodil such a success.The €8053 raised so far will stay in our County to help the people in our area to get through Cancer. We couldn't have done it without you. We have a brilliant team of willing and loyal volunteers who have been helping out over the years, and this year we sent out an appeal for new Volunteers and we got a few more people to help our exsisting team out on the day. A big thank you to some volunteers who have retired after many years of helping out at all the Ballybay Daffodil Days for nearly 30 years. The Cake Sale and Coffee morning was a lovely way of meeting people and thank you to those who helped out and supported it, we are very grateful. Thanks to Pat O'Brien for the use of his premises for the coffee morning. Thanks to Ina Hagan who donated two lovely hampers. Paul Duffy and Rose Stuart were delighted to win them. We had great help from students for the Community College, who supplied lots of scones and helped out at the selling of the cakes, washing up, and serving the tea. A total of 60 volunteers was involved in some way or other and without those people, we simply couldn't have done it. These Volunteers sincerely love to give their time, energy, and enthusiasm to Daffodil Day.

This money provides services to all people who are affected by cancer in County Monaghan. Your support is always crucial to our outstanding success of Daffodil Day. Every Daffodil, keyring or other merchandise sold, supports programmes that prevent cancer, save lives from cancer and help people face cancer to cope and maintain the highest possible quality of life. The National Cancer Helpline 1800 200 700 is invaluable to people who need to talk things over and get advise.
The people in our area who donated in anyway, should be proud that they helped make Ballybay Daffodil Day 2018 a huge success. Ballybay Daffodil Day Co-Ordinators Joe and Dolores Maguire sincerely thank you for your continued support.

One of the Daffodil Day organisers Dolores Maguire with Volunteer and Pink Ribbon Organiser Paddy Gilmour

The Presbyterian churches in Ballybay are planning an early morning gathering to celebrate the resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ on Easter Sunday morning. We will meet at 7.00am at the Wetlands, Clones road, Ballybay. Good Friday is always a rather sad and sombre occasion, and rightly so, as we remember the torture and suffering that Jesus endured before He died on the cross. But early on Easter Sunday morning He rose from the dead and we meet early to celebrate and give thanks for His victory over sin and death. We invite everyone from our local community to join with us on this special morning. We will sing some well known Easter songs and our minister, Rev Dr. Gerry Clinton, will bring a short message from the Bible. We will meet outdoors (if the snow doesn’t return!) and there will be a light breakfast served in the Wetlands after our short praise service. Everyone welcome.

The parish schedule for Holy Week has been released. On Holy Thursday there will be evening mass in Ballintra and Tullycorbett at 6pm and in St. Patrick's at 8pm. The St. Patrick mass will have the washing of the feet and the Trociare offerings will be gathered at this mass. On Good Friday there will be a celebration of the Lords Passion in St. Patrick's at 3pm and 7-30pm. The Ester vigil mass will take place in St. Patrick's at 8pm on Easter Saturday night.

Big thank you to everyone who took part in the parade, to the many people who turned out to view the parade, to the people who helped out and to all our friends and neighbours who supported the parade. St Patrick's Day this year was a very cold day, plus many people were watching the Rugby. But despite all these issues the parade was yet again a huge success. Huge thanks to the local Garda, the Aughnamullen Pipe band, the Fire Brigade who not only took part but also helped with the stewarding. To Stephen Duffy, Gerry West, Peter Murnane and Therse Hamilton. Thanks also to Gary Mc Guirk and Liam Smyth who supplied the trailer for the review stand and the PA system. The winners of the best floats in order of merit were Ballybay Community Crèche, followed by Mullaghmore Equestrian centre and Stephan Mc Cann. Best window display went to Liz Parker of Stitches who arranged a window display that would do Switzers in Dublin proud. Many thanks to the local business people who contributed financially to the parade and to Monaghan Co. Council for the window display prize.
The Municipal council were represented by Pat Treanor, Seamus Coyle, Hughie Mc Elvaney and Sean Gilliland. County Mayor Kathy Bennet was unable to attend as she was in attendance at the New York parade.
This is year 32 with one year missed due to foot and mouth, many thanks again to the participants and the many people who supported the parade.
OH Special thanks to the brilliant Irish Rugby Team!

Ballybay Gospel Country Group is launching a new CD entitled ‘GOD CAN’ in 2nd Ballybay Presbyterian Church at 8pm on Wednesday 11th April. More details to follow. All proceeds from the sale of the CD will be used for missiin work.

Ballybay Chamber of Commerce would like to congratulate Ballybay Drama Society. The society recently staged ‘Professor Tim’ and packed the Pearse Brothers Centre on three consecutive nights. There is already speculation as to what the next promotion will be and many locals are looking forward to the next promotion.

With the improvement in the weather and the longer days our thoughts turn to the outdoor sports and so it is with the bowling fraternity. The Ballybay Outdoor Bowling green situated in the beautiful Town Park will open on Monday 2nd April so anyone wishing to try their hand at the game of bowls can come along as bowls and instructions will be available free of charge.
On Thursday the 22nd March the AGM of the Outdoor Bowling Club was held in the bowling pavilion. There was a good attendance of members and all matters relating to the club and its future running was discussed at length. The following Officers were elected for the coming year.
President – Malachy Mc Skane
Chairman – Samuel Gamble
Vice Chairman – Gabriel Martin
Secretary – Cora Smyth
Assistant Secretary – Philip Gibson
Treasurer – Benny Smyth
Assistant Treasurer – Bertie Latimer
PRO – Benny Smyth
A full report on the past years happenings was delivered and the Treasurer said we were still in the black, but that we need to keep a tight reign on our expenses. It is hoped to have 14 local clubs in the league this year (similar to last season). In the full list of events we have planned will be 16 local players competing in the Border Counties League and also the Mc Guirk Shield. There will be bowling for beginners during the month of April at 7-30pm each evening. On Monday 7th May we will hold a charity all day bowls match starting at 10am. This will be a rinks competition and will be limited to 24 teams, so if you want to enter a team or make further enquiries then ring Mal Mc Skane on 087 9710652.

Local man Colin Parker has made a film entitled ‘Beal Atha Beithe – The Market Town’. In the film there is footage from the town and surrounding areas and interviews with Stephen Sherry, Rory Mc Atavie and George Montgomery. The film will be launched in the summer however you can get a sneak preview of it on the Ballybay and its People facebook page.

25th May 2018 will see the greatest changes in Data Protection legislation for decades with the implementation of the EU General Data Protection. GDPR legislation will apply to all businesses and organisations who collect and process personal data and a breech could see a monetary fine of up to E20,000,000 (or 4% of Annual Turnover whichever is the greater!). From the Sole Trader to global organisations, charities, sports clubs (and all those in between) all will feel the effects and implications of the new legislation

The Local Enterprise Office have had to put on extra events in Monaghan to cater for the significant number of Monaghan town businesses and retailers who have enrolled in GDPR seminars. They are extremely mindful of the businesses in Clones, Ballybay, Blayney and Carrick and have seminars scheduled for Carrickmacross on 5th April and in Ballybay on 25th April.

Links to the seminars are as follows:

GDPR workshop Carrickmacross on 5th April

GDPR workshop Ballybay on 25th April

The annual Daffodil Day takes place on Friday 23rd March. Fresh daffodils along with other items will be on sale throughout the town. There will also be a coffee morning/cake sale in the premises besides Pat O Brien’s from 10am until 2pm. Local Co-ordinators Joe and Dolores Maguire would like to hear from all existing and new volunteers. They can be contacted at 0429741717 or 0868340501. Donations of fresh daffodils are also welcome.

Hard luck to local man Graham Crawford who was on the Armagh Royal School’s rugby side which lost the Ulster Schools Cup final on Monday last. Graham’s team have had a great season, but their luck ran out in the final where they lost to Campbell College 19-13. Graham and his team mates can hold their heads high.

Many of you will not have heard of Thom Moore who died recently. He was an American singer songwriter who moved to Ireland in 1974. In 1994 he released a song called “Gorgeous & Bright”. The song makes reference to Ballybay and Lough Egish. The first verse goes:

Monaghan was frozen

Snow fell night and day;

Lighter hearts who’d chosen to

set out from Ballybay.

We meant to find Lough Egish

but the world was dazzled white;

A fire was lit we drank a bit

and home before the night.

A full version of the song is available on you tube:

Watch YouTube video here >>

The Indoor Bowls season is coming to a conclusion for the 2017/18 season. Ballybay have just one game with Latton for the Jimmy Mc Elroy shield which is played for at the end of each season. We also participate in the Tom Mc Philips trophy which is also an end of season game in Latton.

Ballybay had a good year’s bowling with their maroon team gaining promotion to Division 1 and the white team securing promotion to Division 3. Our Chairperson Angela Rutledge had much praise for the efforts of both teams.

The Outdoor club will now be getting underway and will be opening on Monday 2nd April with bowling for beginners. As the name suggests we will entertain all comers, so if you fancy a game of bowls just turn up and instructions will be given.

The AGM of the Outdoor Bowling club will take place on Thursday 22nd March at 8pm in the Bowling Pavilion. All members are welcome to attend. As our green is open 12 years it is on the agenda to upgrade the entire green and surrounds so it’s important to attend this meeting and have your say.

The parish schedule for Holy Week has been released. On Sunday next - Palm Sunday - masses will be at the regular times and palm will be blessed at all masses. Confessions will be heard in St. Patrick's on Sunday next at 7-30pm. On Holy Thursday there will be evening mass in Ballintra and Tullycorbett at 6pm and in St. Patrick's at 8pm. The St. Patrick mass will have the washing of the feet and the Trociare offerings will be gathered at this mass. On Good Friday there will be a celebration of the Lords Passion in St. Patrick's at 3pm and 7-30pm. The Ester vigil mass will take place in St. Patrick's at 8pm on Easter Saturday night.

This year marks the 32nd annual St. Patrick’s Day parade in Ballybay (with the exception of 2001 due to foot and mouth). The parade begins opposite Gerry Traynor’s shop at the Carrickmacross end of O Duffy Terrace. The parade will begin at 5pm. The organising committee request that all participants please be at the Carrickmacross Road prior to 4-50pm. This enables stewards and the gardai to start the parade on time.

Aughnamullen Pipe Band will lead the parade as they have done so every year to date. This year promises to be a great event with many community, business and vintage participants taking part. Among the community groups are Ballybay Community Creche who are celebrating their 10th year in operation. They have a fantastic window display next door to Pat O Briens. Also taking part are Balllybay Drama Society after last year’s success. They are now getting ready for the play Professor Tim in the Pearse Brothers Centre on 22nd, 23rd and 24th March. Watch out for a classy preview of the day during the parade.

This year there will be cash prizes of €150, €100 and €50 awarded for the best entrants. The committee are very grateful to the local shops and pubs for their kind contributions again this year.

Part of the parade activities include a window display competition for local groups and businesses. Ballybay-Clones Municipal District are awarding €100 to the best display using the Irish language. As usual an exceptional high standard is emerging as we get closer to St. Patrick’s Day. The organising committee are very grateful to Corcaghan Co-Op owners of Ballybay Mart for facilitating the parade by closing the mart earlier. We also hope to thank the Irish Rugby team for their contribution to the days events!!!
Finally, could people please put their bunting and flags out to help celebrate our Patron Saint’s Day.

An historical walk of Ballybay will take place on Friday evening 16th March commencing at 8pm. The starting point will be the entrance to Loch Mor Avenue. The walk will last about one hour and will finish at Pat O Briens. People taking part are advised to wrap up well and if possible wear some form of high vis clothing. It is hoped to be able to provide some high vis vests as well. As some interest has been expressed in the tour already it would be advisable to contact 087 7687248 in advance in order to confirm numbers.

The entire contents of the Riverdale Hotel will be auctioned off at the hotel on Saturday 24th March. There will be viewing on the morning of the auction. Further details from 086 8149599.

A big thank you goes to Wendy Sloan for providing the attached pictures showing people on the frozen Lough Major back in February or March of 1947. We don't know who the people in the picture are and if anyone can throw some light on it could they contact Paul Swift at 086 1703640 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. So with the 'beast from the east' rumoured to be back this weekend we can all wonder if like in 1947 the lake will freeze over!!

Hullo All! It is our great pleasure to invite you to join us in welcoming a very distinguished gentleman to the town of Ballybay! Oh yes indeed this is a right royal welcome, as we take to the stage to entertain you with this funfilled farcical of good ole Irish Humour, that is 'Professor Tim'!
Do come along folks and enjoy the nights craic...Laugh with us.. Laugh at us, whichever you perfere is fine with us! It's great for Ballybay to have this drama up and running in the town, though what is a comedy night without the rousing laughter and applause of a dedicated audience. ..that would be you folks.Ok see you on 22nd, 23rd, 24th of March in the Ballybay Pearse Bros Centre at 8pm sharp! See a few familiar faces, a few new faces..and no doubt a few confused faces!! Looking forward to seeing you there!!It'll be outrageous craic hey!!

Monaghan County Council invites you to a Public Consultation evening on the proposed master plan for Ballybay Town Park

Wednesday 14th March 2018 @ 7pm in The Wetlands Centre Clones Road, Ballybay
Monaghan County Council has procured a consultant to prepare a master plan for Ballybay Town Park. Concept plans have been drawn up based on the consultation in January 2017 and will be on display on the night.

YOUR input is needed. It is YOUR community space and we need you to decide what amenities you would like to see in the park.
Please come along and have your say! If you have any queries please contact Eileen/Rory on 047 51018.

Monaghan LAG is hosting a series of information events about the LEADER Rural Development Programme (RDP) 2014-2020 during March 2018. A list of dates and venues are below.

These free events will provide information on LEADER funding available for community and voluntary groups and enterprises in County Monaghan under the themes of Rural Tourism, Enterprise Development (incl. Social Enterprise), Rural Towns, Rural Youth, Biodiversity, Renewable Energy and Protection and Sustainable Use of Water Resources. There will also be an opportunity after the presentations to talk with LEADER staff.

Further information about Monaghan LEADER is available on www.midl.ie. If you have any queries, or would like to discuss a project idea in confidence, please contact Monaghan Integrated Development on 042 9749500 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Local man James Flanagan continues to fly the flag for Ballybay. James who hails from Loch Mor Avenue attends Dundalk IT where he is completing a media course. During last weeks poor weather James braved the wind and snow to take some video footage which he then sent to RTE. The National Broadcaster was delighted to receive the footage and it aired during news bulletins. James has since put his drone up to capture some scenes of the snow around the area and this along with other footage is available to view on Ballybay and its People facebook page. Keep up the good work James.

It’s just one week to the annual Ballybay St. Patrick Day parade. Once again it will take place in the town starting at Gerry Traynor’s at 5pm. There will be prizes for the best floats so now’s the time for local businesses, community groups and sporting organisation to get your thinking caps on. Further information is available from Therese at 087 6853316.

A substantial number of Chamber of Commerce €10 and €20 vouchers were sold in the run up to Christmas. The Chamber would like to thank everyone who supported their voucher scheme. It is also worth remembering that the vouchers are available all year so if you are looking for Birthday presents throughout the year why not consider a voucher which can be spent locally.

There has been great interest in local people displaying their images on the Ballybay and its People facebook page. During February lots of people contributed. The March theme will be OPEN. Remember the rules maximum four pictures per person related to the theme and off course taken locally in and around Ballybay. You don't need an expensive camera and you can even take them on your phone. If anyone has any ideas for other themes you can either post on the page or contact Dolores Maguire at 086 8340501.

Tanagh Outdoor Education and Training Centre are running a Kayak Skills Camp on the 26th-28th March from 10am-2pm daily for 9-16 year olds and a Tanagh Forest School Camp on the 4th-6th April from 10am-2pm daily for 6-11 year olds. Camps are run by highly qualified & experienced instructors. Book early to avoid disappointment. Contact Philomena on 049 5552988.

Jamie Hughes is hosting a table quiz in aid of the Drumhowan GFC Night at the Oskars. It will be in the Ballybay Inn on Friday 9th March at 8pm. Table of 4 €40. There will be lots of prizes on the night so why not come along and bring a friend.

 A 5km fun run/walk will take place on Sunday next 11th March. The event will start at 3pm from the Pearse Brothers Centre with registration at 1-30pm. There will be an entry fee of €10 for adults, €5 for children and €20 for families.

Ballybay Community Creche are taking names for Preschool, Babies, Waddlers & Toddlers for September. Due to demand for places we are opening another Preschool room, so if you or anyone you know would like to book a child in please contact Laura on 042 9756996.

It is our great pleasure to welcome a very distinguished gentleman to the town of Ballybay. Will you join with us in greeting 'Professor Tim' in the Ballybay Pearse Brothers Centre on 22nd, 23rd and 24th of March at 8pm sharp!! (Thats not a Ballybay 8pm by the way). Ballybay Drama group are delighted to bring this classic play by George Shiels to the stage and after the amazing, though not surprising success of last year's antics in 'Anyone Could Rob a Bank', we are ready to rock again and really hope to see and hear you there folks!! Meet all the celebrities and sure bring a friend or three to join us in this calamity of good ole Irish Humour!! Don't miss out my good people as it's three night's only due to the lure of Hollywood's red carpet!! Enjoy the show!!

Ballybay Social Club meets again Friday 9 March next from 11.30am in Cuan Mhuire with morning tea/coffee. The day may have a St Patrick`s Day theme with the usual mix of social interaction, games, music, exercises, food and conversation aplenty. Why not come along and see what you`ve been missing - it`s for anyone who would like to spend a pleasant few hours on easy street! There`s no demands on anyone, all are there to have a nice time. Any queries call 087 2332882.

Ballybay Central School recipe book - "Food Glorious Food" will be available to purchase from 24th March from the school, Centra and Robbie's Corner Shop. At just €10 it would make the perfect Mothers Day gift.

 Ballybay Drama Society are taking to the stage again with a production of Professor Tim on 22nd, 23rd and 24th March at 8pm nightly in the Pearse Brothers Centre. This mad cap comedy will cost just €10 (students €5).

Tanagh's Kayak Skills Camp 26th-28th March, 10am-2pm daily, suitable for those aged 9-16yrs. Tanagh's Forest School 4th-6th April, 10am-2pm daily, suitable for those aged 6-11yrs. Exciting new mountain bike programme starting at Tanagh 'Gearing up off road' . Limited spaces. Gearing up off road Taster session, 4th April, 9.30am-1.30pm, and Tanagh's Gearing up off road certified programme, 5th+6th April, 9.30am-2.30pm, suitable for those aged 12-16yrs

Book early to avoid disappointment on all these courses. Limited spaces available. Contact Philomena on 049 5552988.

Spring is here and Ballybay Tidy Towns group are planning activities to improve the appearance of various areas in the town. We would like to inform residents of items that may be of interest to them. Funding is now available through Monaghan County Council under the Community & Environment Funding Scheme. Application forms are available from MCC or from BTT committee members. If you have a residence committee in your estate or if you wish to form a residence committee you can apply for funding if you have a project that would enhance the appearance or improve the quality of the environment in your area. BTT can help you with your application.

Drumhowan GFC is having a car boot sale on Saturday 24th February. The event will run from 9am until 4 pm and stalls are available indoor and outdoor at the Community Centre. Further details available from Joanne Ward 0877451 701.

A charity night held on Saturday 28th January raised a grand total of €1800. The monies will be split between Alma's and Ballybay Cancer Society. Thanks to all who supported on the night, who gave donations and spot prizes for the raffle.

Local man Jamie Hughes is holding a table quiz in the Ballybay Inn on Friday 9th March beginning at 8pm. Tables are off 4 with a cost of €10 per person. All proceeds are for the Drumhowan Oskar Night.

The Parents' Association from Ballybay Central School would like to invite you to a Cookery Demonstration on Friday 23rd February at 7.30pm in 2nd Ballybay Church Hall, Hall Street. Local lady Jacinta Caraher (Masterchef competitor) will be cooking up a storm and giving everyone some hints and tips along the way. Tickets cost €10 and you can also pay at the door. 'Food Glorious Food', a recipe book compiled by the Parents' Association with lots of tried and tested recipes from families in the school will also be on sale on the night

It was highlighted at a recent meeting of the Ballybay Regeneration Committee meeting that there has been an increase in dog fouling at the Ballybay Town Park. Under Section 22 of the Litter Pollution Act 1997 it is an offence to allow a dog under your control to foul in a public place. This means the owner or person in charge of the dog is required to remove dog faeces and dispose of them in a suitable, sanitary manner. If you own a dog please be responsible and clean up after it otherwise you could find yourself in trouble and receive a fine.

Monaghan County Council Environmental Services will be carrying out joint inspection with Litter and Dog Warden in Ballybay Town Park over the coming months. Those found to be in non compliance with Litter or Dog Control act will be fined.

The Wetlands Centre will host a public meeting entitled Ireland, Brexit and the Border on Friday 16th February at 8pm. Matt Carthy (MEP) and Caoimhghin O Caolain (TD) will be in attendance.

The Parents' Association from Ballybay Central School would like to invite you to a Cookery Demonstration on Friday 23rd February at 7.30pm in 2nd Ballybay Church Hall, Hall Street.  Local lady Jacinta Caraher (Masterchef competitor) will be cooking up a storm and giving everyone some hints and tips along the way. Tickets cost €10 and you can also pay at the door.  'Food Glorious Food', a recipe book compiled by the Parents' Association with lots of tried and tested recipes from families in the school will also be on sale on the night.

Its just 4 weeks to the annual Ballybay St. Patrick Day parade. Once again it will take place in the town starting at Gerry Traynor’s at 5pm. There will be prizes for the best floats so now’s the time for local businesses, community groups and sporting organisation to get your thinking caps on. Further information is available from Therese at 087 6853316.

Drumhowan GAA are having a car boot sale at the Community Centre on Saturday 24th February from 9am until 4pm. Both outdoor and indoor options are available. Further information is available from Joanne Ward at 087 7451 701.

There has been great interest in local people displaying their images on the Ballybay and its People facebook page. The February theme will be TREES. Remember the rules maximum four pictures per person related to the theme and off course taken locally in and around Ballybay. You don't need an expensive camera and you can even take them on your phone. If anyone has any ideas for other themes you can either post on the page or contact Dolores Maguire at 086 8340501.

The 'Rockcorry Children's Bible Club' for Primary School children is on Thursday 15th February from 4-30pm until 5-30pm in Rockcorry Presbyterian Church hall. Bring a friend or two with you. Bible lessons, quizzes, singing, games and refreshments. Organised by Andrew & Jenny McCullough Faith Mission Workers.

Revised Timetable for M1 and M2 Bus service for Ballybay

Click here to see Timetable >>

Monaghan County Council is committed to supporting local communities to promote, enhance and develop their local area. This commitment is supported by the annual Community and Environment Funding Scheme.

We are now inviting applications for the 2018 funding scheme. In 2018, the Municipal Districts, Community Development, Housing and Environment sections are working together to allocate funding through one central funding scheme. This process will allow community groups to maximise funding available to them and to ensure all community groups, residents committees and tidy towns groups throughout the county are supported in their voluntary activities.

Beginning on Ash Wednesday, 14th February, the parish will have an early morning mass Monday to Friday at 7-15am and Tuesday to Friday at 9-30am. There will also be a Monday evening mass at 8pm and mass on Saturday mornings at 10am. There will be evening masses in Ballintra and Tullycorbett on Ash Wednesday at 7-30pm. Trocaire Lenten boxes are now available and families are asked to display the box in a prominent location within the home.

Ballybay Pearse Brothers will host their annual table quiz on Saturday night the 10th of February at 7.30 in the Club House. All proceeds go to the running of our Juvenile teams for 2018. Your support would be very much appreciated.

On Saturday 24th February in the Ballybay Inn there will be a Karaoke night starting at 9-30pm. Music on the night will be by the Karaoke Knights and there will also be a raffle on the night. This event is in aid of Drumhowan GFC OSKARS Night which takes place in the Glencarn hotel on Saturday 7th April.

Do you want your Valentine’s Day flowers delivered to your loved one? Smyth’s Newsagents are offering free delivery of flowers within a four-mile radius of Ballybay. There is also a free card for every bouquet purchased over €30. To order your flowers contact Therese at 087 6853316 or 042 9741034.

Its just 5 weeks to the annual Ballybay St. Patrick Day parade. Once again it will take place in the town starting at Gerry Traynor’s at 5pm. There will be prizes for the best floats so now’s the time for local businesses, community groups and sporting organisation to get your thinking caps on. Further information is available from Therese at 087 6853316.

Community Games activities are back in full swing. Anyone interested in taking part in Swimming, Marathon, Cross- Country, Mixed Distance Relay, Duathlon, Art, Model-making, Handwriting, Project, Debating, Gymnastics, Talent, Culture Corner, Under 14 Table Quiz or Choir please contact Sharon 042 9748110 or Maire 042 9748955 for registration to take part.

A Mass for deceased members of the Ballybay Pearse Brothers Club will take place on Monday the 12th of March at 8pm in St.Patrick’s Ballybay.

Ballybay Credit Union recently hosted a very successful primary school quiz. The winners and runners up are pictured.

Congratulations to Jayne Drury (St. Brigids and Our Lady's, Castleblayney) and Katie Duffy (Latton and Ballybay Community College) who were members of the Ulster Post Primary School team which won the All Ireland Inter-provincial tournament last Saturday. Jayne impressed at left half back which she played in all four games while Katie stared in midfield and also played in all four games. The girls will be presented with their Ulster All Star awards in Kelly's Inn on Friday 23rd february.

Ballybay Community College won their first ever Danske Bank Pat King Cup title when they defeated De La Salle of Belfast 1-14 to 3-6. After a tight first half the Belfast outfit led by a single point 2-4 to 1-6 the Ballybay goal coming from Michael Coyle in the 10th minute. In the 54th minute the sides were level however in the closing 6 minutes substitute James Mc Adam and wing forward Aaron Hamilton fired over a couple of winning points. Darragh Dempsey who contributed seven of the Ballybay points was named player of the match. The team and scorers were: J Roe, R Duffy, T McPhillips, D McElearney, J Slevin, E Duffy, J Hughes, J Sniauksta, S Slevin 0-2, A Hamilton 0-1, D McCann 0-1, P Quinn, M Coyle 1-1, D Dempsey 0-7, 0-5 frees, T Keenan 0-1.
Subs :J McAdam 0-1

The Community Creche is having a clothing collection on February 5th. If you have any clothing (adult or child), shoes, handbags etc... please drop them into the creche by Friday 2nd February. Thank you in advance for your support.

Saturday 3rd March is the feast of St. Blaise. Throats will be blessed at 10am mass in St. Patrick’s.

The Hilltop Café, Ballybay will be the venue on Sunday 4th February for a Bake Sale. All proceeds from the sale will be donated to the Ballybay cancer Society. The sale will take place from 2pm until 5pm and there will be raffles for spot prizes on the day. Donations to this event are very welcome.

Congratulations to Ronnie Farrelly O' Duffy Tce, who is celebrating his 90th birthday today (Thursday). Ronnie’s family and friends wish him a fantastic day.

An invitation to a Gospel Meeting in the Presbyterian Church hall, Rockcorry on Friday 2nd February 2018 at 8pm is extended to all. Speaker for this month is Rev Dr Gerry Clinton. Organised by Andrew and Jenny McCullough of the Faith Mission. All welcome. Plan to come and bring a friend. Refreshments afterwards.

Tanagh Learn to Paddle course starts on Tuesday 6th of March. This course will run for 4 weeks, every Tuesday from 10am-1pm. Suitable for Adults. Learn to paddle is subsidised by Age and Opportunity Go for Life Programme. Limited spaces so book early. Booking and Payment in advance is essential with Tanagh Outdoor Education and Training Centre. Contact Philomena on 049-5552988 for more information.

Ballybay Social Club meets again on Friday 9 February, Cuan Mhuire, from 11.30 onwards. There is the usual morning tea/coffee with lunch for everyone. There is music, maybe bingo, a free raffle and indoor bowls as well as some craic and chat. Everyone is welcome, the cost is just €6. Come along, you`ll be made welcome. Any queries please ring 086 0660270.

The Rockcorry Children’s Bible Club for primary School children is on Thursday at a new time of 4-30pm until 5-30pm in Rockcorry Presbyterian Church hall. Bring a friend or two with you. Bible lessons, quizzes, singing, games and refreshments. Organised by Andrew & Jenny McCullough Faith Mission Workers.

Ballybay appeared on the RTE Twitter news feed last week thanks to local man James Flanagan. James videoed scenes of snow falling in the town and forwarded them to RTE. A 24 second clip which was seen by over 10, 000 people then appeared on the RTE News twitter feed. It read “Snow is falling in Ballybay Co Monaghan as a weather warning for snow and ice is in place for many parts of the country”. Keep up the good work James.

Ballybay Community Créche opened its doors 10 years ago on 28th January 2018. This is a great achievement for the Management & Staff team (past & present). The créche provides affordable childcare and education for babies and children for over 115 families in the community. It employs over 20 qualified Childcare Practitioners, Kitchen/Cleaning & Admin Personal. We also have participants on Community Employment and TUS training schemes. The créche has went from strength to strength over the 10 years. It was officially opened by President Mary Mc Aleese on 2nd June 2009. We will have a celebration to mark this anniversary in June of this year.

The Créche is now taking names for children eligible for the FREE Preschool year Sept 2018 - June 2019. If your child (or anyone you know) has a child aged 2 years and 8 months they can attend preschool for three FREE hours per day. We run two morning Preschool session (9am - 12pm) and one afternoon session (1pm - 4pm). We have waiting lists for places from the baby room up and run on a first come, first served basis, so why not call into the créche to secure registration with a small deposit. For further details please contact Laura on 042 9756996.

We have a clothing collection on February 5th. If you have any clothing (adult or child), shoes ,handbags etc... please drop them into the creche by Friday 2nd February. Thank you in advance for your support.

Well known Theatre Director and writer Padraic McIntyre will conduct a Drama Workshop for Actors and anyone interested in Acting. No experience necessary. This Drama course is for Adults age 18 years + and will take place in Pearse Park GAA Centre on Saturday 27th January from 10.00am to 4.00pm. For further information and to book a place contact 086-8507317. This workshop is funded by Monaghan County Council Arts Office.

On Saturday next Katie Duffy (Ballybay Community College and Latton) and Jayne Drury (Our Lady’s, Castleblayney and St. Brigids) will be part of the Ulster Post Primary School All Star team which will take part in the All Ireland Inter-provincial tournament in Kinnegad. The girls were nominated by their schools and came through a series of trials before being selected in the final squad. Its been a particularly busy week for Jayne as yesterday she played for her school in the Ulster U20A final.

This year’s confirmation candidates will join the parish community at 6-30pm Mass on Saturday next 27th January. Their confirmation ceremony will take place on Saturday 12th May at 11am in St. Patrick’s, Ballybay. Canon Shane McCaughey from Aughnamullen East will be the main celebrant.

The Hilltop Café, Ballybay will be the venue on Sunday 4th February for a Bake Sale. All proceeds from the sale will be donated to the Ballybay cancer Society. The sale will take place from 2pm until 5pm and there will be raffles for spot prizes on the day. Donations to this event are very welcome.

Enrolment for the 2018/19 school year will take place in the school office between 1pm and 3pm on Tuesday 30th January, Wednesday 31st January and Thursday 1st February. It is important that the child’s PPS number and a copy of their birth cert is brought to the enrolment. If these dates and times do not suit, then arrangements can be made with the office by contacting 042 9741171. There will be an open day in June when parents and students will have an opportunity to visit.

Community Games have commenced for 2018. Anyone interested in Phase 1 Activities - Badminton, Basketball, Chess, Draughts, Handball (1 wall), Indoor Soccer, Rugby (Mini), Soccer Girls U12 (7 a side) or Table Tennis, please contact Sharon 042 9748110 or Maire 0429748955 before Friday 26th January.

This year Dublin will host the World Meeting of Families. In preparation for this very important event a Family Petition Box is making its way through every parish in the Diocese of Clogher and will remain in each parish for a period of one week. The purpose of the box is to collect personal family petitions that parishioners wish to have included as part of the World Meeting of Families in August. The Petition Box will arrive in Tullycorbet Parish on Friday 19th January and will remain until Friday 26th January. Petitions slips which were made available at masses last weekend should be completed and placed in the Petition Box at all four masses this weekend i.e. Ballybay Vigil Saturday 6-30pm, Ballybay Sunday 12-15pm, Tullycorbett Sunday 9-30am and Ballintra Sunday 11am. The Petition Box will move to another parish on 27th January.

Thanks to everyone who displayed pictures in December on the Ballybay and its People facebook page. The images were excellent even if there wasn’t as many as in November. The theme for January will be WINTER IN BALLYBAY. Remember the rules maximum four pictures per person related to the theme and off course taken locally in and around Ballybay. You don't need an expensive camera and you can even take them on your phone. If anyone has any ideas for other themes you can either post on the page or contact Dolores Maguire at 086 8340501.

In October 2017 local brother and sister Jason and Joanne Wylie ran the Cardiff Half Marathon and Dublin Marathon in aid of Drumkill Day Care centre, Three Mile House. The 39.3 miles (63.2 km) ran by each of them raised a total of 2750 euro. They would like to thank everyone who kindly sponsored them and are delighted that this money will go towards the Monaghan Branch of the Alzheimers Society of Ireland to help fund their transport services, community home help, the day care centre and respite care.

A blood donation clinic will be held in the Sports Centre (behind the Community College) on Thursday 18th January from 4-30pm until 8pm. New donors are welcome.

Numerous locals have pointed out their disappointment that the monkey puzzle tree visible on the walk between Loch Mor Avenue and the football field was blown down during the recent storm. The tree estimated to be around 200 years old was a native of either Chile or Argentina and was planted when the Leslie’s had an estate on the outskirts of Ballybay. While the tree is the hardiest species of conifer on the planet its large crown proved to be too heavy and when the recent high winds caught the crown the tree snapped about a metre from the ground. The tree will be sadly missed by the many locals who saw it on their daily walk on the Avenue Road.

Ballybay Social Club meets up again on Friday 13 January at Cuan Mhuire, Ballybay. Hope all the regulars can attend and of course there`s always room for new people - you don`t have to be a pensioner to attend! Stephen`s organizing a fun fundraising Table Quiz evening in the near future and there will be other visiting social groups meeting up with us in the coming months. We meet from 11.30 am onwards and leave around 3pm. If anyone has any issue with transport, please call Charlie.

A substantial number of Chamber of Commerce €10 and €20 vouchers were sold in the run up to Christmas. The Chamber would like to thank everyone who supported their voucher scheme. It is also worth remembering that the vouchers are available all year so if you are looking for Birthday presents throughout the year why not consider a voucher which can be spent locally.