Friday 21st June is International Yoga Day and a number of specific classes and demonstrations have been organised for the Wetlands Centre. This is a day for helping and supporting others. All classes and events are ‘FREE OF CHARGE’ however donations can be made and these in turn will be provided to the Ballybay Cancer Society and Camphill. There are events for everyone starting at 6am and running all day until 8-30pm. First up is a special class from 6am until 8am. This will consist of a very traditional Indian practice called Surya Namaskar (Sun Saluation) which is practiced with the rising sun 108 times. This number has a lot of meaning and is very symbolic in Yoga. It is a beautiful and incredible experience. A class for children and teenagers will take place between 12 noon and 1-30pm. In the afternoon between 2pm and 4pm there will be a session called “understanding and exploring the traditional practice of yoga plus its mental and physical health benefits”. This session will include demonstrations. Yoga for the older person will be between 5pm and 6-30pm and the day will finish with an adult yoga class between 7pm to 8-30pm.

Doohamlet Childcare are having a free family fun day on Sunday 30th June between 2pm and 6pm. Amongst the attractions will be a mobile pet farm, magic show, total wipeout and an obstacle course. This event is suitable for children of all ages and should be a great afternoons fun.

The Ballybay News has been contacted by a local resident who witnessed the misuse of the pedestrian crossing in the town recently and asked if we could remind people that the pedestrian crossing is not a zebra crossing and that pedestrians should wait until the lights turn red before crossing. The responsible resident had seen a child run straight across the road as if they were using a zebra crossing. Pedestrians should push the button on approach to the crossing and only cross when the traffic lights turn red and it is safe to cross.

An Al Anon Public information meeting will be held in Cuan Mhuire, Ballybay on Saturday the 6th July 2019 at 3pm. Al Anon has only one focus to help and support families and friends of problem drinkers. Anyone whose life is or has been affected by someone else's drinking may attend an Al Anon group.

An Open day will be held at Camphill’s Robb Farm, Clones Road, Ballybay on Saturday 29th June from 2pm until 5pm. Admission is free and on the day there will be numerous attractions including weaving, a cake stall, bric-a-brac, bouncy castle, craft sale, home produce, candles, face painting, a barbeque and refreshments. Donations of cakes and bric-a-brac would be very much appreciated. Further information is available at 042 9748197.

Ballybay Golf Society’s annual President’s Day take place on Saturday next in Clones. Tee times are from 11am until 12-30pm. Good luck to all

Donna and Ciara Mc Adam would like to thank everyone who supported their recent Bake sale especially anyone who baked and provided food. The amount raised was €1425 which will go towards supporting Lourdes Youth Helpers.

Friday 21st June is International Yoga Day and two local charities will benefit from a series of yoga classes which will be held in Ballybay on that day. The day will be a celebration of yoga and an opportunity to help and support Camphill and the Ballybay Cancer Society. More information next week.

Congratulations to Katie Glynn representing Tullycorbet who won a silver medal in the 100m sprint at the County Community Games Athletics Finals in Clones last Saturday.

Children are invited to register for Summer Stars and be part of the adventure by reading as many books as they can over the Summer. All participants will be given a Summer Stars reading card to record and track their own progress. All children will receive a certificate and medal on completion. To reserve a place call in or phone Pauline on 042/9741256.

Ballybay GAA Club are hosting Kelloggs GAA Cúl Camps from Monday 15th July to Friday 19th July. Book online at www.kelloggsculcamps.gaa.ie You need to book before the 21st June to guarantee kit for camp and to enter the early bird prize draw.

An Al Anon Public information meeting will be held in Cuan Mhuire, Ballybay on Saturday the 6th July 2019 at 3pm. Al Anon has only one focus to help and support families and friends of problem drinkers. Anyone whose life is or has been affected by someone else's drinking may attend an Al Anon group.

A massive thank you to everyone who either helped out or contributed to our flag day last weekend. The amount raised was a fantastic €1680-75. Congratulations to Chairman Jason and Secretary Odelle on the birth of their daughter Zoe Marie.

An Open day will be held at Camphill’s Robb Farm, Clones Road, Ballybay on Saturday 29th June from 2pm until 5pm. Admission is free and on the day there will be numerous attractions including weaving, a cake stall, bric-a-brac, bouncy castle, craft sale, home produce, candles, face painting, a barbeque and refreshments. Donations of cakes and bric-a-brac would be very much appreciated. Further information is available at 042 9748197.

Kiran Young Wimberly and the McGrath family, will return to sing and play in Cahans Meeting House at 8pm on Friday 14 June. The evening will include songs from their latest CD - Rest in the Shelter - and will also feature Kiran's versions of Psalms set to Irish and Scottish traditional and folk melodies from their earlier CDs. Cahans with its acoustic qualities provides a unique setting so much so that they included a photo of the group performing at Cahans on their CD. There will be no charge but donations to cover expenses will be welcome. If you want a sneak preview of what to expect then check out http://scanmail.trustwave.com/?c=6600&d=up_13PMpm5R0rnOqedqmtI7e1x9StU6z6jKnJ-eGaw&s=393&u=http%3a%2f%2fwww%2ecelticpsalms%2ecom for lots of information about the group and samples of their recordings.

In the coming weeks the Tidy Towns committee will be putting out planters with flowers around the town in anticipation of judging which will take place in June. The committee would appeal to everyone to ensure that their properties are spick and span. Weeding, litter picking, painting, etc should all be done asap. The committee are particularly appealing to landlords and owners of derelict properties to do their bit. Gerry Mc Elroy will be sponsoring a prize for the best kept premises so please get to work and help impress the judges who will be here soon.

Drumhowan GFC are holding a Breakfast morning on Sunday June 16th as a fundraiser for their U14 teams upcoming trip to Feile in Galway. Breakfast served from 8-30am till 12-30pm and all support appreciated.

The Faith Mission Monthly Gospel Service will take place on Friday 7th June 2019 at 8pm in Rock Corry Presbyterian Church hall (kindly granted). The speaker will be Andrew McCullough. All Welcome - Refreshments afterwards.

All welcome to Summer Praise in Corlea Presbyterian Church on Sunday 9th June 2019 at 4pm led by Rev Dr Jean Mackarel and choir members - come along and bring a friend.

The next Social day in Cuan Mhuire is on Friday 14th June at 11am. Everyone welcome.

The official opening of the new dining room at the Community Creche will take place on Saturday next 8th June at 2pm. The Creche have led on lots of entertainment for the children including bouncy castles, disco, nail art and face painting. There will be a special guest appearing on the day. Everyone welcome.

Our cross-border team travelled to Letterkenny last night. The game was played on grass were points are hard to get but we will be hoping that we got a share of the points. More details next week. The local league is progressing well, and back matches have been cleared up. The first of our Saturday games will be played this weekend when we play for the Gibson Trophy, starting at 10-30am. The dates for the champion of champions will be arranged next week and a full list will be displayed in the club house. These will include singles, pairs and rinks.

Sessions in the House is a Northern Ireland based studio who provide a platform for new talent to have their time in the spotlight. Check out Ballybay and its People facebook page where you can see a performance at Sessions in the House by Ballybay’s very own Joanne Lynch. The talented singer songwriter is seen performing one of her own songs called ‘Lean Living’. Its worth a watch – you will not be disappointed.

Ballybay Pearse Brothers would like to thank everyone who helped or contributed to their recent annual juvenile flag day. The total raised was a fantastic €2,539.50.

Good luck to Katie Glynn who is competing in the Under 14 100m at the County Monaghan Community Games Athletics Finals in Clones next Saturday 8th June.

Last Saturday the Parish of Tullycorbet celebrated the 65 years of Priesthood and 90th birthday of Monsignor Gerard McSorley, retired PP of the parish and former Prior of Lough Derg. The highlight was a Mass of Thanksgiving at St Patrick’s Church, Ballybay, at which Bishop Larry Duffy presided. The mass was attended by numerous priests from the Clogher diocese. This was followed by refreshments in the Cuan Mhuire Centre.

In April 2018, Monaghan Co. Council appointed The Paul Hogarth Company to prepare a Public Realm & Economic Plan for Ballybay, funding for which was provided under the Town & Village Renewal Scheme.

The Ballybay Public Realm & Economic Plan was adopted and officially launched at the Ballybay Regeneration Committee Meeting held in the Ballybay Civic Offices on 11th April 2019.

Ballybay Public Realm & Economic Plan >>

Tullycorbet Drama Group will stage ‘Wigs on the Green’ one final time in Tullycorbet Community Centre next Sunday 26th May at 8-30pm sharp. This is a fundraiser in aid of the search for Seamus (Shay) Lawless, husband of local girl Pamela Mc Dermott. Seamus managed to climb to the top of Mount Everest however on the descent he fell and is missing on the mountain. Funds are currently being raised in order to mount a recovery mission to bring him home to Ireland. There is no cover charge for this event however donations can be made at the door. All donations accepted.

Kiran Young Wimberly and the McGrath family, will return to sing and play in Cahans Meeting House at 8pm on Friday 14 June. The evening will include songs from their latest CD - Rest in the Shelter - and will also feature Kiran's versions of Psalms set to Irish and Scottish traditional and folk melodies from their earlier CDs. Cahan’s with its acoustic qualities provides a unique setting so much so that they included a photo of the group performing at Cahan’s on their CD. There will be no charge but donations to cover expenses will be welcome.

Monaghan County Councils, Library Services, Sports Partnership and Road Safety Sections have teamed up to host a design a bookmark competition for Bike Week. The competition is open to primary school children in 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th class. Entry forms are available in Ballybay Branch Library. Children can draw their bookmark design on the entry form and then return it to the Library before Friday 31st May.

This week sees the outdoor bowling club travel to Fivemiletown to play the stars team in the Border Counties League. With both teams having 10 points from their two previous fixtures it will be all to play for this week.
In the local league Shercock got the deciding points when they played Derryvalley last week but its still Corcaghan that is riding high with twelve points at this stage.
On Sunday evening last we had two bowling coaches from the Crumlin Bowling Club in Dublin on our green to coach 8 of our young bowlers that were in attendance. Our thanks to Francis Farmer and Paul Greenan for organising this event and also the junior classes that they supervise each Tuesday on our green starting at 7-30pm Anyone wishing to take up the game of bowls should just come along any evening and they will be made very welcome.
A reminder that the Jimmy Gibson memorial trophy will take place on Saturday 8th June at 10-30am. Make sure you have your name on the timesheet in the club house. Our thanks to those who helped with the painting of the club pavilion and also Seamus for spraying the moss – a great job done by all.

A mass of thanksgiving to mark Mgr. Mc Sorley’s 65th Anniversary of his ordination and his 90th Birthday will take place in St. Patrick’s Church, Ballybay at 11-30am on Saturday 1st June. This is a very important date in this year’s calendar so please put it in your diaries. The mass will be followed by refreshments in Cuan Mhuire. Mgr. Mc Sorley asks for a remembrance in your prayers at this time and he does not want any gifts.

Confirmation will be celebrated in the parish on Sunday next 26th May in St. Patrick’s Church at 3pm. Bishop Larry Duffy will be the chief celebrant. 37 boys and girls received their First Holy Communion on Saturday 11th may.

A new yoga class taught by Patricia Drum who has over thirty year’s experience has began in the Wetlands Centre. The classes are aimed at locals regardless of age, gender or physical ability. Classes are available at three different times during the week. Anyone interested in taking part can contact Patricia on 0872839288. Classes are Monday’s 6-30pm to 8-30pm, Tuesday’s 9-30am to 11-30am and Tuesday 7pm to 9pm.

The new surface on our outdoor bowling green did not prove rewarding when we played Fivemiletown during the week in the Mc Gurk memorial shield. Needing 13 shots to win in the second round we could only manage 8 and so its Fivemiletown that go on to meet Dungannon in the next round. This week we play Enniskillen on our home patch in the cross-border league so we hope to make amends for last week’s slip up.
The next competition on our green will be the Jimmy Gibson memorial trophy which will take place on Saturday 8th June at 10-30am. Time sheet will be posted in the club house so get your name on it in good time.
This week will see Derrynoose start their league games when they take on Ardaghey during the week and Muckno will play Ballybay maroon. A list of point standings will be published next week.

Monaghan minor ladies were crowned Ulster champions on Sunday last when they defeated Donegal 0-13 to 1-6. Congratulations are due to the seven local girls four from St. Brigid’s and three from Latton who were involved. Jayne Drury captained the side and despite being doubled and sometimes triple marked she managed to score three points from play. Clare Duffy had a fine game between the sticks and had no chance with the Donegal goal. Caoimhe Brennan was solid at corner back while Jane Duffy also turned in a fine defensive performance. Michaela Linden came on in the second half and made a wonderful block to deny a Donegal score. Megan Millar and Emile Culleton were not used on this occasion.

Students who attended the Vocational School in Ballybay from 1966 to1971 are cordially invited to a reunion that will take place in the school on Thursday May 23rd between the hours of 4.15pm to 6.00pm. If you can attend please contact the school on 0429741093 between the hours of 9.00 and 3.30pm Monday to Friday. All welcome.

A six weeks course – learn to jive for children and teenagers will commence in Tullycorbett Community Centre on Monday 20th May from 6-30pm until 8pm. Booking for this course is essential. If interested you can contact 086 0887786.

Monaghan Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) announces the launch of the Community Enhancement Programme for 2019

Deadline for receipt of applications is Thursday 30th May 2019 at 5pm

Community Enhancement Programme Application Form 2019 - Word Doc.

Community Enhancement Programme Application Guidelines 2019 - Word Doc.

A Ecumenical Multidenominational Choral Festival will be held in Christ Church, Aughnamullen on Sunday 12th May at 7pm. Ballybay Community Choir will be participating on the night. Everyone welcome.

A jobs club for unemployed people in Ballybay and surrounding areas will commence on Monday 20th May at 9-30am in Cuan Mhuire, Ballybay. The club will cover such topics as C.V. preparation, cover letter writing, job searching, interview techniques and mock interviews. For further information please contact Teresa on 042 9748090 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. BALLYBAY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCHES CD LAUNCH Members of the Presbyterian Churches of First and Second Ballybay, Rockcorry and Drumkeen have been recording a Gospel CD over recent months, and it will be launched in Second Ballybay church, Clones Road, Ballybay on Friday 10th May at 8pm. The CD is entitled “Come, Praise the Lord” and has 20 tracks including 7 solos, 2 duets, 2 trios, a quartet, the churches praise band and choir, and the Sunday School children. There are 2 instrumentals and a variety of different types of music including traditional hymns, modern praise & worship songs and country & western songs. All the artists will be taking part on the night and most will be singing/playing the songs they have recorded on the CD. The program includes a puppet show arranged by Monaghan girl Bethan Hill. Admission is free and we invite everyone to come and join us for this special occasion. A light supper will be provided in the church hall afterwards. CDs at €10 each will be available for purchase on the night.

The annual First Holy Communion in the parish will take place on Saturday next in St. Patrick’s at 11am.Because of this there will be no 10am mass Saturday.

A mass of thanksgiving to mark Mgr. Mc Sorley’s 65th Anniversary of his ordination and his 90th Birthday will take place in St. Patrick’s Church, Ballybay at 11-30am on Saturday 1st June. This is a very important date in this year’s calendar so please put it in your diaries

Congratulations to Sean Mc Cabe who won €1400 on Friday night last when he found the ‘ACE’ at Stookies Bar ‘Chase the Ace’. The craic begins again this Friday night at 12am when everyone will have another chance to win.

Congratulations to our local swimmers, Aisling Duffy, Conor Curran, Daithi Lynch, Eanna Curran, Neasa Doherty, Ruadhan Curran, Sadhb Doherty, Tara Reilly, Tiarnan Reilly and Tom Doherty who gave excellent performances at the County Finals last weekend. Ruadhan, Connor and Eanna Curran, Tom, Neasa and Sadhb Doherty won gold medals and have qualified for the National Community Games Finals in Limerick 25th & 26th May. Aisling Duffy also won silver a medal. Well done to all of you. The proposed provisional date for area athletics finals is Wednesday 15th May @ 6pm if sufficient interest. For further details contact Sharon 087 2332882 or Maire 086 0826103.

Expressions of Interest are being sought for Town and Village Renewal Scheme 2019.

The Town and Village Renewal Scheme 2019 provides funding for rural towns and villages for delivery of projects in 2019 and 2020.

Successful proposals will demonstrate close collaboration between communities and business interests in the design and delivery of proposed projects and must have the support of the Local Authority.

All interested Town/Village Groups/Community Groups/Development Associations should complete the Expression of Interest form and return to the Community Development Section, Monaghan County Council, County Offices, The Glen, Monaghan, Co. Monaghan H18 YT50 or email completed Expression Of Interest to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. no later than 5pm on Friday 24th May 2019.

It is essential that project promoters consult with the relevant Municipal District Office of Monaghan County Council while preparing an Expression of Interest and prior to its submission.

2019 Town and Village Expression of Interest form - Word Doc

2019 Town and Village Scheme Outline PDF

Members of the Presbyterian Churches of First and Second Ballybay, Rockcorry and Drumkeen have been recording a Gospel CD over recent months, and it will be launched in Second Ballybay church, Clones Road, Ballybay on Friday 10th May at 8pm. The CD is entitled “Come, Praise the Lord” and has 20 tracks including 7 solos, 2 duets, 2 trios, a quartet, the churches praise band and choir, and the Sunday School children. There are 2 instrumentals and a variety of different types of music including traditional hymns, modern praise & worship songs and country & western songs. All the artists will be taking part on the night and most will be singing/playing the songs they have recorded on the CD. The program includes a puppet show arranged by Monaghan girl Bethan Hill. Admission is free and we invite everyone to come and join us for this special occasion. A light supper will be provided in the church hall afterwards. CDs at €10 each will be available for purchase on the night.

The organisers of the Unicef Syrian/Yemen collection would like to thank everyone who donated and everyone who helped collect. The amount raised was €1077-40c.

The outdoor bowling club had their first league game on Wednesday 23rd April away to Omagh but despite our best efforts we went down 6 points to 2. This week sees us travel to Fivemiletown for our first game in the Mc Gurk memorial shield which is played on a home and away basis. The home game will be on Wednesday 8th May and the combined score will count.
Our first game in the local league took place on Friday evening last and it was between Ballybay Maroon and Balllybay White. It finished four points to two in favour of the maroons.
The Vincent Cup was played for on Saturday last in Fivemiletown on a windy but mainly dry day. The winners on the day were Bertie Latimer and Benny Smyth along with Matt Livingstone and Harold Nelson. The cup and prizes were presented at a meal in the golf club afterwards. It will be Ballybay’s turn to host the cup next year.

Keep free Friday May 3rd at 7.30pm in Cuan Mhuire.
You’re all invited... spread the word... this event is funded by Monaghan County Council and Ballybay ICA. Baking by Astrid Moffett and Floral Demonstration by Martina Kavanagh of Tina’s Floral Arts... admission is FREE, we will be raffling the Floral arrangements, proceeds in aid of Cuan Mhuire. Refreshments served so please let us know if you can make it.

The Dorinda Carnew memorial sponsored walk in aid of MS Ireland (County Monaghan Branch) will take place in Ballybay on Thursday 9th May at 7pm. The event will start at the Ballybay Inn. Anyone seeking sponsor cards should contact 087 2206703. This event has drawn hundreds of people to Ballybay over the years and your continued support would be very much appreciated.

The Faith Mission monthly Gospel Service will be held in Rockcorry Presbyterian Church Hall on Friday 3rd May at 8pm. The speaker will be the rev. Dr. Gerry Clinton. Everyone is welcome and there will be refreshments afterwards.

Local Fianna Fáil election candidate Seamus Coyle has this week requested Eir to clarify why the town of Ballybay has been excluded from its recent announcement of Broadband rollout focused on Urban Centres, saying “Surely I welcome the fact that four towns in County Monaghan are to be included in the proposed rollout to urban centres, Clones, Castleblayney, Carrickmacross and Monaghan, but I’m very disappointed that Ballybay is excluded. It’s another example of Ballybay being left out. While EIR is a private consortium, they are subject to government regulation which implies they must deliver equal service to all areas of the country. I firmly believe if the current government is serious about the regeneration of rural Ireland it must apply to providers of Telecommunications infrastructure i.e. Broadband, Mobile and Fived line Communications, a Universal Service Obligation which would mean all providers would have to service the country equally and not what is happening at the moment where they are required only to provide cover to a percentage of population which leaves them only providing cover where it is financially lucrative that is the bigger urban centres.

Thank you to everyone who contributed so generously to our collection. Thank you also to everyone who assisted with the collection. Your help was very much appreciated. €836 was collected.
Indoor Soccer
Well done to Tullycorbet Community Games Under 13 Indoor Soccer Team who reached the county semi-final only to lose out narrowly to Inniskeen. It was a great effort by all the panel Eoin Brady, Eanna Curran, Simon Du Plessis, Stephen Duffy, Jerome Lavelle, Martin Quinn, Eoin Sheridan and Sean Ward, their mentors Martin Sheridan and Peter Ward.

Well done to our local gymnasts Andrea Quinn, Tara Reilly, Anna Leonard and Illia Mc Ardle who gave excellent performances at the County Gymnastics Finals in Carrickmacross last weekend.

Congratulations to our local swimmers, Aisling Duffy, Conor Curran, Daithi Lynch, Eanna Curran, Neasa Doherty, Ruadhan Curran, Sadhb Doherty, Tara Reilly, Tiarnan Reilly and Tom Doherty who gave excellent performances at the County Finals last weekend. Ruadhan, Connor and Eanna Curran and Neasa Doherty won gold medals and have qualified for the National Community Games Finals in Limerick 25th & 26th May. Aisling Duffy and Tom Doherty won silver medals.

Athletics and Cycling closing date is 24th May. Contact Maire 086 0826103 / 042 9748955 or Sharon 087 2332882 / 042 9748110

The annual first holy communion in the parish will take place on Saturday 11th may in St. Patrick’s at 11am. Confirmation with Bishop Duffy will also take place in St. Patrick’s on Saturday 26th May at 3pm.

Monaghan County Council Culture Night 2019 - Funding Call to support events

Culture Night is an annual all-island public event that celebrates culture, creativity and the arts. This year, it will take place on Friday 20th September 2019 between 5pm and 11pm. On Culture Night, arts and cultural organisations and venues of all shapes and sizes, including the National Cultural institutions, extend their opening hours to allow for increased access to the public. Special and unique events and workshops are specifically programmed at participating locations and everything is available free of charge.

Click here to see full list >>

Thanks to all who contributed to the recent collection for Emigrants. It amounted to €1090.

The AGM of the Ballybay Outdoor Bowling Club took place on 25th March in the Bowling Pavillion. There was a good attendance of members and all were delighted at the upgrade of the bowling green which was needed after 13 years of use. The Chairman Uel Gamble was in charge of proceedings and thanked all the members for all their help during the year. There was also much praise for all the teams that participated in the various competitions which also included our team which won the Border Counties League in 2018.
The minutes of the last AGM was read and approved. Both secretary and treasurer gave their reports and all was in agreement that it was good to see our financial situation in a healthy state after spending almost €18000 on the new underlay and improvements to the green. After the chairman’s report we had the election of officers for the coming year. President Malachy Mc Skane. Chairman Uel Gamble who agreed to take the chair for another year but said it should rotate at least every 2 years. Vice Chairman – Brendan Magennis. Secretary – Cora Smyth. Assistant Secretary – Philip Gibson. Treasurer – Benny Smyth. Assistant Treasurer – Bertie Latimer. PRO – Benny Smyth. The selection committee who meet every Monday at 7pm is George Berry, Malachy Mc Skane, Seamus Winters and Benny Smyth. It was agreed under AOB that we will have much the same programme of events as last year and its good to see more local teams entering the league. At the moment we have 16 teams entered which will be played in 2 sections. The draw will be made this week and distributed in the coming days as we hope to start the games on the final week in April. In the chairman’s closing remarks he thanked all the members for all they done for the club and hoped that there will be lots of new members joining in the coming season.

There will be a pop-up charity shop in Toners old shop beside the Bank of Ireland this weekend. All proceeds from the sales will be distributed to a number of charities. Items on sale include jewelery, glass items, antiques, curtains, china, clothes and lots more. The shop will be open on Friday and Saturday and it’s a case of first come first served so the advice is get into the shop on Friday if you are after a bargain.

Ballybay Chamber of Commerce will be hosting a Civic Reception at 7pm on Thursday 11th April for the All Ireland winning Ballybay Community College team and Special Olympian Jamie Hughes. Guest of honour on the night will be county team manager Malachy O Rourke. This event is supported by Monaghan County Council and is free to everyone.

The Parish of Tullycorbett and surrounding areas wish to acknowledge and give thanks for the years of service given by the “Ballybay Nuns” over many decades. With changes in the ownership and administration of St. Joseph’s Nursing Home, it was felt that this is an opportune time to thank the Daughters of Our Lady of the Scared Heart for their sterling commitment. To mark the occasion, our new bishop, Larry Duffy, will be the chief celebrant of a mass of Thanksgiving in St. Patrick’s Church, Ballybay on Saturday next 6th April at 11-30am. After the Mass refreshments will be served in Cuan Mhuire.

Last Saturday was a very proud day for the Ballybay Community College senior football team as they won an All-Ireland title and the Edmund Ignatius Rice Cup. Massive congratulations are due to the players and management for such a wonderful achievement. There is a full match report in the sports pages. Ballybay Chamber of Commerce are one of the many groups in the town and surrounding areas who would like to congratulate the team on their amazing success. The chamber plan to have a civic reception for the team in the very near future.
Paul Mc Aviney of the Ballybay and its People facebbok page has asked if everyone could all please send a message by the good old postal service and congratulate the team and the school on this very very special occasion. On the page Paul said, “Let's all commit to spending more than 3 seconds sending an electronic message and instead LETS ALL SEND A CARD OR A LETTER TO TELL THEM ALL HOW PROUD WE ARE OF THEM. Just address it to 'The All Ireland Champions, Ballybay Community College, Ballybay, County Monaghan, Ireland”.
Frankie Wright who spent a number of years in Ballybay and is himself a former Pearse Brothers player was so delighted with the success that he has invited the team to Lilliput Adventure Centre for an overnight on us in recognition of their amazing success.

Local man Eamon Gorman recently celebrated his 80th Birthday. Eamon donated the money he received for his Birthday to the local Lourdes Invalid Fund which this year will be sending 8 people from the parish to Lourdes. Good man Eamon and many happy returns.

Mackey Smyth, who celebrated his 70th birthday last Friday night in Lynch’s of Lisnalong and combined it with a Charity Fundraiser for local charities wishes to say a huge thank you to all those who supported the event either by attending or sending contributions, and by so doing made it such a resounding success. Thanks to Mick McCormick who provided the music and to Kathleen & Paddy for the food. Thanks also to the Northern Standard and local social media platforms for the publicity. Benefitting charities will include Ballybay Cancer Society, Five for the Fight-Cancer Research, Cystic Fibrosis and Loughmourne National School’s Autism Unit. It is gratifying to know that these great organisations will benefit as a result of your remarkable generosity. Anyone who would like to make a donation can still do so by contacting any of the Smyth family.

A church gate collection weekend in aid of UNICEF for The Syrian and Yemen appeal will take place on the 13th and 14th of April at all masses in the parish.
We appreciate your support to bring aid to the innocent victims caught up in the conflict of war, injustice, hunger and division. We continue to thank you for your kindness and generosity. God Bless.

The next Social Day takes place in Cuan Mhuire on Friday 12th April from 11am until 2pm.

The Aughnamullen crochet and knitting group have been asked to knit of crochet Easter gifts for the Children’s Oncology Unit in Drogheda Hospital. If you are interested in helping out, please contact Pamela Sheridan or Mary Duffy (shop) on 087 2043187.

An open invitation has been issued to an open evening and talk on Freemasonry in Ballybay and surrounding areas from 1723 to 2019. This introduction to the world’s oldest fraternity and its contribution to the history of Ballybay will take place in Ballybay Masonic Hall on Friday 12th April. The evening will commence with an ‘open door’ to the Masonic Hall at 6pm with a tour of the historic building and a display of items connected with the local lodge. This will be followed by a talk at 8pm from guest speaker Eugene Markey – Provincial Archivist Province of Meath. Admission is free however if you would like to make a donation it in turn will be given to Ballybay Cancer Society

Hi everyone the gang are getting their act together to dazzle you with the comedy caper that is 'A room with a Queue!' By Grainne Jordan.
Rehearsals are in full swing and time is a ticking away!! Grab the diary and save the date with a choice of three nights to come along and enjoy this wonderfully written play! April 4th, 5th and 7th at 8pm in Ballybay Pearse Bros Centre. We promise music...madness..and most definitely lots a laughter!!
See you there!!

As part of National Spring Clean week Ballybay Tidy Towns committee is organising ‘Ballybay Spring Clean’ on Saturday 13th April 2019 (please note the new date). Anyone who can spare an hour or two is asked to be in the Square at 10am. Speaking to the Ballybay News Committee Chairman Martin Gleeson said, “Please come out and help and make YOUR town more presentable. There's too many people complaining about the condition of the town and doing nothing about it. This is your opportunity to make a difference”.

Councillor Seamus Coyle wants to remind everyone that if you are over 18 you have a right to vote. Speaking to the Ballybay News the Latton based Councillor said, “If you are 18 years old on the date of polling in any election or referendum, you are entitled to vote, but only if you are on the Electoral Register in the area, where you normally reside. To check if you are registered to vote you can phone Monaghan County Council on 047-30551 or check Online at www.monaghan.ie”.
Local and European Elections Take place on Friday 24th May 2019, so if you are aged 18 years on or before that date, you can be added to the Supplementary Register up on till 5pm on Tuesday 7th May 2019. For those wishing to get a Postal Vote, the closing date is 5pm on Monday 22nd April 2019.Your Vote is Your Right.

The organising committee of this year’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade were delighted with the large attendance and would like to thank all the locals who continue to turn out in big numbers to support the parade. They would also like to thank the following for their help and support: Rory Mc Atavie, Stephen Duffy, Gerry west, Michael Keenan, Michael Murnane, Dolores Maguire, Gary Mc Guirk, Aughnamullen Pipe Band, Ballybay Garda, Employees of Monaghan County Council, everyone who participated and all of the local businesses who contributed towards the parade costs. The winner of the best float (€200) was Mullaghmore Equestrian Centre and the runner up (€100) was Bluebells.

Tullycorbett Drama Group will present a 3-Act comedy entitled ‘Wigs on the Green’ in Tullycorbett Community Centre on Friday 29th and Sunday 31st March and again on Friday 5th and Sunday 7th April. the curtain goes up each night at 8pm.

Mackey Smyth from Anney will celebrate his 70th birthday on Friday 22nd March. He is combining it with a Charity Fundraiser for local charities. It’s all taking place in Lynch’s Pub, Lisnalong tomorrow night. Proceedings get underway at 9.30 and music will be provided by the great Mick McCormick. Benefitting charities include: Ballybay Cancer Society, Five for the Fight-Cancer Research, Cystic Fibrosis and Loughmourne National School’s Autism Unit. Everyone is welcome. Why not come along and enjoy the craic! No presents or cards please. Donations on the night go to these fantastic organisations who do amazing work and deserve our support.

A three- day Easter camp for 8 to 14 year olds will be held between the 16th and 18th April at Breakthrough Performance at Pearse Park Ballybay. During the three days participants will have the opportunity to take part in GAA, Aussie Rules, soccer, rounders, Olympic handball, American Football and basketball. Further information is available from Dessie at 086 3764114 or Barry at 087 2238579.

The vestry members of Christ church Ballybay would like to thank sincerely each and everyone of you for your very kind donations towards the resurfacing of our driveway. It is greatly appreciated - without your support it would not be possible to carry out the work so thank you!
Our Community youth Club takes place this Saturday evening at 6pm in Christ Church Hall. All national school children are very welcome to come along and join in the fun, lots of games, arts and crafts and refreshments on the night, Parents are very welcome to stay and have a cup of tea or coffee and a catch up. Hope to see you all there.

On the outdoor front we hope to open the green for the new season on Monday 25th March. The outdoor club has been invited to Fivemiletown on Saturday 27th April to play a select team in the Vincent Cup. This cup is played for each year so you can put your name on the time sheet in the Pavilion. Another date for your diaries is Monday 25th March when we hold the AGM in the club house at 8pm. Some of the committee members will be making contact with the teams that play in our competitions last year to make them aware of the dates for the coming season.

Rockcorry National School invite you to an evening Flower Arranging Demonstration by Monaghan Flower & Garden Club on Thursday 28th March @ 7:30pm in Rockcorry Church of Ireland National School. Tickets €10 available in the school now or pay in on the door.

Yes folks it's full steam ahead rehearsals for the upcoming comedy caper '
A room with a Queue!' By Grainne Jordan. Ballybay Drama Group will adorn the stage with this wonderfully written play on Thursday 4th, Friday 5th and Sunday 7th of April in the Ballybay Pearse Brothers Centre at 8pm!
Do come along and enjoy this class nights entertainment! We look forward to yee all showing up for the showdown!!

Ballybay Pearse Brothers would like to pass on their sympathies to the Mc Cabe and Boyle families on their recent bereavements. Michael Houghton passed away suddenly in Leeds on Saturday last and is a brother of Cathy Mc Cabe, Knocknamaddy. Details of his funeral will be released in the near future. Margaret Boyle (Loch Mor Avenue) died on St. Patrick’s Day and was the mother of former player Joey Boyle. Margaret’s funeral mass was held yesterday in St. Patrick’s and she was buried in the adjoining cemetery afterwards. May both Michael and Margaret rest in peace.

CLÁR is a targeted investment programme for rural areas that aims to provide funding for small infrastructural projects in areas that experience disadvantage at Schools /Community Facilities. CLÁR 2019 includes new measures to support rural communities. Measures 1, 2 and 3(c) will be managed by Monaghan County Council and Measure 3 (a) & (b) will be managed directly by the Department of Rural and Community Development – See docs. below for further details:

CLÁR Guidelines

CLÁR List of DEDs - PDF

Clár Map - PDF

CLÁR FUNDING SCHEME 2019

Measure 1 Application Form

Measure 2 Application Form

Measure 3c Application Form

The Department of Transport, Tourism & Sport has announced funding for the repair and upgrade of local or regional public roads under The Community Involvement Scheme (CIS) 2018.

Community Involvement Schemes (CIS) are joint ventures between the community and Monaghan County Council, aimed at improving the quality of public roads which are in need of repair.

A 15% percent contribution by the public is required towards the total cost of the works.

Eligible works include surface dressing, road strengthening and ancillary works.

Completed application forms are to be submitted to the Roads Section, Monaghan County Council, M- TEK II, Armagh Road, Monaghan by Friday 4th January 2019.

Community Involvement Scheme Application Form 2019

The annual St. Patrick’s Day parade will take place on Sunday next 17th March at 5pm. Floats, community groups and others participating in the parade should assemble at Gerry Traynor’s shop. The organising committee would very much appreciate it if local businesses would erect some bunting and flags. Aughnamullen Pipe Band will once again lead the parade. Anyone seeking further information should contact Therese at 0876853316.

The Aughnamullen crochet and knitting group have been asked to knit of crochet Easter gifts for the Children’s Oncology Unit in Drogheda Hospital. If you are interested in helping out, please contact Pamela Sheridan or Mary Duffy (shop) on 087 2043187.

Ballybay Pearse Brothers are having a ‘Race Night’ in Stookies Bar on Saturday next 16th March. The first race is off at 9pm. Should be a great night’s craic and everybody welcome.

Congratulations to the under 13 Indoor Soccer Team who won their first game of the competition. They beat Donaghamoyne and will soon be playing against other local teams within Co Monaghan. The team managed by Martin Sheridan and Peter Ward are Eoin Brady, Eanna Curran, Simon Du Plessis, Stephen Duffy, Jerome Lavelle, Martin Quinn, Eoin Sheridan and Sean Ward..We wish them good luck in their next match.
Upcoming Activities.
Entries for Quiz, closing date is 15th March.
Cross Country, Mixed Distance Relays and Marathon, closing date is 23rd March.
Camogie, Futsal, Gaelic Football, Pitch and Putt, Rounders, Tag Rugby, Skittles, Soccer and Spikeball, closing date is 5th April.
Athletics and Cycling closing date is 24th May.
Contact Maire 086 0826103 / 042 9748955 or Sharon 087 2332882 / 042 9748110

The Ballybay Indoor Bowling Club held their last club night of the season on Monday last when Chairperson Angela Rutledge thanked all those that competed in the various competitions during the year. We had two teams in the Monaghan Zone League but there was no change in their standings in the league. Angela lead by example when she won along with Cora Smyth and Rose Hughes, the ladies triples and now go to Shaws Bridge, Belfast on Saturday to compete in the Northern Section. The entire bowling fraternity wish them good luck and hope they come back with the silverware.
On the outdoor front we hope to open the green for the new season on Monday 25th March. The outdoor club has been invited to Fivemiletown on Saturday 27th April to play a select team in the Vincent Cup. This cup is played for each year so you can put your name on the time sheet in the Pavilion. Another date for your diaries is Monday 25th March when we hold the AGM in the club house at 8pm. Some of the committee members will be making contact with the teams that play in our competitions last year to make them aware of the dates for the coming season.

Rockcorry National School invite you to an evening Flower Arranging Demonstration by Monaghan Flower & Garden Club on Thursday 28th March @ 7:30pm in Rockcorry Church of Ireland National School. Tickets €10 available in the school now or pay in on the door.

Yes folks it's full steam ahead rehearsals for the upcoming comedy caper '

A room with a Queue!' By Grainne Jordan. Ballybay Drama Group will adorn the stage with this wonderfully written play on Thursday 4th, Friday 5th and Sunday 7th of April in the Ballybay Pearse Brothers Centre at 8pm!
Do come along and enjoy this class nights entertainment! We look forward to yee all showing up for the showdown!!

As part of National Spring Clean week Ballybay Tidy Towns committee is organising ‘Ballybay Spring Clean’ on Saturday 6th April 2019. Anyone who can spare an hour or two is asked to be in the Square at 10am. Speaking to the Ballybay News Committee Chairman Martin Gleeson said, “Please come out and help and make YOUR town more presentable. There's too many people complaining about the condition of the town and doing nothing about it. This is your opportunity to make a difference”.

Monaghan Local Community Development Committee will be asking local communities to come up with ideas for events in their areas. Events can be centred around food, sport, the environment or health and culture.

The event is a celebration of the great spirit of community that exists across the country and an effort to help people who share communities to come together, get to know each other and deepen the sense of community in their area.

Events will take place over the May Holiday weekend of 4th to 6th May 2019. The success of this initiative will lie in having local communities come together to plan events that will work best for their area. This celebration belongs to everyone.

We will not tell communities what they should do, events will be very much driven by communities. These could include themes around sport, history, baking, anything that will help neighbours to come together.

The event is a chance for people to foster a sense of helping each other by coming together, not just on that day, but hopefully all year round. It’s the chance for everyone to get to know all members of their community, to reconnect with neighbours and have a celebration together that is open, inclusive and local.

Applications for funding to support local events is now open and will close on Monday 1st April at 5pm

Guidelines for Applicatants PDF >>

National Community Application Form Word Doc. >>

Massive congratulations to the Community College U19 team who have reached the Rice Cup All Ireland final. On Saturday last at a rain swept Clooneen, Co. Roscommon the local lads defeated Scoil Chuimsitheach Chiarain 1-8 to 1-6. In the final which takes place on 23rd March they will play Boherbue Comprehensive School. The side are captained by Latton’s Aaron Mulligan who is also the sides top scorer. /www.sportsjoe.ie has a great article on Aaron under the heading - Young Monaghan hotshot definitely meant it. Full match report is available on the sports pages.

The Parish of Tullycorbet and surrounding areas wish to acknowledge and give thanks for the years of service given by the “Ballybay Nuns” over many decades. With changes to the ownership and administration of St. Joseph’s Nursing Home, it was felt that this is an opportune time to thank the Daughters of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart for their sterling commitment. To mark the occasion, the new Bishop, Bishop Larry Duffy, will be the chief celebrant of a Mass of Thanksgiving in St. Patrick’s Church, Ballybay, on Saturday 6th April at 11-30am.

Ballybay Central School warmly invite you to a Table Quiz on Friday 8th March at 8pm in Derryvalley Hall. Adult €10 and Children €5. A night for all the family, with spot prizes and a light supper being served.

Local girl Keva Morgan is hosting a bric a brac sale and coffee morning on Saturday 16th March at 11am in Church Street Hall. Keva is raising money as part of a trip to South Africa where she will spend time teaching and volunteering. Keva would like to thank everyone who has donated already and would love to hear from anyone who has unwanted items that they are prepared to donate for her sale.

Local lady Pauline Duffy will officially take over as the librarian in Ballybay on 22nd March. Pauline has a wealth of experience having spent 17 years in the library in Castleblayney. Her many friends in Ballybay would like to wish her all the best in her new role.

Fr. Ruben of the Comboni Missionaries has written to thank the parish for allowing him to speak recently about his work and to make an appeal for funds to help with their work. The amount collected at masses in Tullycorbett and the vigil mass in Latton amounted to €2, 955. Fr. Ruben was delighted with this amount and has asked that his thanks be passed on to everyone who contributed.

The outdoor club has been invited to Fivemiletown on Saturday 27th April to play a select team in the Vincent Cup. This cup is played for each year so you can put your name on the time sheet in the Pavilion. Another date for your diaries is Monday 25th March when we hold the AGM in the club house at 8pm. Some of the committee members will be making contact with the teams that play in our competitions last year to make them aware of the dates for the coming season.