Last Friday night Gerry Mc Elroy had the honour of turning on the Ballybay Christmas lights. Gerry recently celebrated 30 years in business and there was no better man to be given the honour. This year also seen a new tree in operation. The organisers would like to thank the large crowd who turned up for the switch on and to everyone who contributed to the recent church gate collection. the amount raised was €703. Finally the organisers would like to remind everyone to shop local this Christmas.

Our community carol service will be take place a little earlier this year in Christ Church. We are holding it on WEDNESDAY 11th DECEMBER at 7:30pm. We have a beautiful musical evening lined up for you with music by the lovely Silver Brass Band, special singing by Ballybay Community Choir and the delightful bell ringing performed by Camphill Community. There will be light refreshments served afterwards, a great chance for the community to have a catch up over a cuppa, all are very, very welcome. Please also note out Christmas Eve communion service is at earlier time of 10pm this year in Christ Church. We would love to have you join us.

Christ Church Aughnamullen are hosting a pop-up shop in a vacant premises on Main Street, Ballybay on Friday 6th December and Saturday 7th December from 10-30am to 5pm. Proceeds are going towards fund raising for church repairs.

There will be a GOAL Mile at Latton O Rahilly’s GAA Club on Thursday 26th December at 11am. This will be a great way to burn off a few calories after any excesses on Christmas Day and contribute to a great charity at the same time. See you all there.

Congratulations to Damien Caraher, the Ballybay Pearse Brothers recipient of the Volunteer Recognition and Appreciation Awards hosted by Monaghan County Board last week. Damien has been a major figure in Ballybay circles for over 30 years. He played with distinction for the Pearse Brothers for over 20 years winning an Owen Ward Cup in 1986 and Mick Duffy Cup the following year and he also represented the club in Scor on many occasions. He pulled on the Farney jersey at underage and senior levels. However as dynamic he was on the pitch, it will be his herculean efforts off the pitch that will be his lasting legacy. Ballybay have a clubhouse that is the envy of many organisations in the country. It is not an exaggeration to say that without Damien’s drive, determination and unfailing optimism that the clubhouse would never have been built. He was the driving force behind the plans and the building and it was his insistence that it be used on an ongoing basis that meant the Ballybay Bingo, the most successful fundraiser in the club’s history is housed in the clubhouse every Tuesday for the last 11 years. Supported by his wife Sharon and his 4 children Daniel, Shane, Gemma and Conor and his parents Franco and Maggie, it is people like Damien who make the GAA the best organisation in the world.

The AGM of Ballybay Credit Union will take place tonight in the wetlands Centre at 7-30pm. All members are encouraged to attend.

Ballybay Post Office will be extending their opening hours over two Saturdays in December. The Post Office will be open from 9-30pm until 5-30pm on Saturday 7th December and Saturday 21st December. To be sure of delivery before Christmas please try and get your post away early.

A massive congratulations are due to the students (and parents) of Scoil Eanna who recently donated 129 shoe boxes to the Team Hope Annual Shoe Box Appeal. The boxes were beautifully wrapped and are now on their way to children affected by poverty in Eastern Europe and Africa. Well done everyone.

Christ Church Aughnamullen are hosting a pop-up shop in a vacant premises on Main Street, Ballybay on Friday 6th December and Saturday 7th December from 10-30am to 5pm. Proceeds are going towards fund raising for church repairs.

Practice for all members of the 3 local church choirs will take place in St. Patrick’s Church on Monday evening next at 8pm.

The local Mens Shed have produced a number of articles which would be suitable for Christmas presents. These include bird boxes and numerous small wooden toys/decorations. The shed is located down the side of the library.

Ballybay Camphill Community will hold their annual Christmas Craft sale on Saturday 30th November at Robb’s Farm, Clones road from 1pm until 4pm. Available will be bric-a-brac, tea/snacks, waffles, crepes, homemade cakes, organic jam/juice, handweaving, candle making, face painting and pizzas. Donations of cakes and bric-a-brac would be very much appreciated.

This year’s Christmas Lights switch on will take place on Friday 29th November in the Square at 7pm. Please put this date in your diary. Santa will be there and there will be presents for every child in attendance.

Ballybay Social Club’s Christmas Party will take place on Friday 6th December at 11am. This will include Christmas Dinner, Christmas Gift and Entertainment by Brid McCabe. So why not come along and get into the Christmas spirit and everyone is welcome and bring a friend.

The Ballybay Heritage Society have produced a 2020 calendar which would make a lovely Christmas present especially for family members who may live overseas. The calendar has 13 pictures of Ballybay which were taken over 100 years ago. It is available in local shops or from any member of the Ballybay heritage Society. Alternatively you can contact Paddy Rutledge at 0429741730 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

All are welcome to a Community Carol Service in Rockcorry Presbyterian Church (kindly granted) on Sunday 1st December 2019 at 7pm. This service is organised by Jim Lyons Faith Mission. Refreshments afterwards. Come along and bring family and friends.

Ballybay Community Creche are hosting a fundraising coffee morning and evening event on Friday 29th November. Tea, coffee, scones and croissants will be available from 8am until 11am and then in the evening from 5pm until 7pm there will be hot chocolate and marshmallows. Santa will be in attendance in the evening and there will be pictures and presents. Everyone welcome.

As part of the Science Festival and in line with the theme ‘Climate Action’, we have been given 1000 native Irish trees to give out free to community and voluntary groups, schools in the county and who will plant in the month of November.

We would like to reach out to the tidy towns committees and other community based groups who would endeavour to plant the trees in a community space.

We are proposing a minimum of 10 and max of 25 trees per group who express an interest.

The trees are stored in Newbliss at the moment and we hope to give them out on Monday 25th November at a ceremony here in Clones Library at 9.30am with Minister Humphreys.

A new defibrillator training course for anyone in the Ballybay and Tullycorbet area is being delivered on Monday 11th November in Tullycorbet Community Centre from 6-30pm to 10pm. If interested please contact Sheila 0868319459 or Una 0867963890 to book a training slot. Please support this valuable community resource.

The monthly social day takes place this Friday in Cuan Mhuire from 11am until 2pm. Everyone welcome.

A coffee morning and cake sale will be held on Friday 22nd of November 2019 in Hall Street Church Hall. All funds go to centres catering for local children with Special Needs. Your support would be very much appreciated.

Many, many thanks to all who kindly donated and helped make it possible for us to get our beautiful new driveway up and around Christ Church, a beautiful job indeed, thank you to all involved.

Tickets to Gerry Mc Elroy’s annual fundraising dance are still available. The annual senior citizens party and fundraising dance will take place in just one week. On Friday 15th November the senior citizens party will take place in Lisdoonan Community Centre. After being provided with dinner Country Harmony will entertain the expected large attendance. Gerry has also guaranteed a very special guest on the night. The following night Saturday 16th November USA Country Music legend Robert Mizzell will rock the Lisdoonan Centre. This is always a brilliant night with supper served and all proceeds raised being distributed to local senior citizen groups. Tickets are available from Gerry’s take Away or you can pay on the door.

A Community Games Meeting is taking place on Wednesday 13th November in Tullycorbet Hall at 7.30pm. All parents with children aged 6-15 years are invited to attend and please bring anyone you know living in the Ballybay, Drumhowan or Tullycorbet area who have children aged 6-15years. Also welcome are grandparents, retired persons or anyone who would like to help our children enjoy learning new activities. Community games offers a wide range of activities but your participation is required in order to maximise its potential. Activities include Art, Athletics, Badminton, Basketball, Camogie, Chess, Choir, Cross country, Cycling, Debating, Drama comedy sketch, Draughts, Duathlon, Futsal, Gaelic football, Group singing, Group music, Group modern dance, Gymnastics, Handball, Handwriting, Hurling, Indoor soccer, Irish contemporary dance, Marathon, Mini rugby, Model making, Pitch n putt, Project, Recitation, Rounders, Skittles, Soccer, Spikeball, Swimming, Solo music, Solo modern dance, Solo singing, Table quiz, Table tennis and Tag rugby. We would be delighted if you could join us on Wednesday 13th November @ 7.30pm in Tullycorbet Hall.

The Ballybay Heritage Society have produced a 2020 calendar which would make a lovely Christmas present especially for family members who may live overseas. The calendar has 13 pictures of Ballybay which were taken over 100 years ago. It is available in local shops or from any member of the Ballybay heritage Society. Alternatively you can contact Paddy Rutledge at 0429741730 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Monaghan County Council is carrying out a feasibility study for a proposed community and business hub in Ballybay to help to regenerate the town and the community, make it more vibrant and attract further investment. The proposed community and business hub will positively impact the community and the economic and social development of Ballybay by encouraging community activities, community business and job creation.
The Council need the public input as representatives of community organisations to make sure the new Ballybay Community and Business Hub will meet the needs of your community, your organisation and the growth needs of businesses and new business start-ups or social enterprises.
The councilwould be grateful if people could take 10 minutes to complete an online survey at the following link:
https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/TWGMBL8
to tell them what you think and give us your views For further information please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. tel 0044 2887 769 007.

Many thanks to all who gave to the Chernobyl Children church gate collection at the 3 churches last weekend. The total collected was €835.

Ballybay Tidy Towns has allocated a little funding to offer to local housing estates who would like to undertake a small project. This could be planting bulbs or painting a fence or cutting back shrubs, or planting a tree, or other ideas. So if you are living in a housing estate and see something that will improve your area please message us (Ballybay Tidy Towns – Facebook) so we can discuss your idea and see how we can help you. We know there are people doing great work without much help or recognition so we would like to help you if we can.

Once again the people of Ballybay and surrounding areas have not been found wanting when asked to dig deep for a good cause. The recent Pink Ribbon Day organised by Paddy Gilmour raised the fantastic amount of 44908-60c. Speaking to the Northern Standard Paddy said, “I would like to thank everyone who has either contributed or volunteered at the recent Pink Ribbon Day. The amount raised was brilliant and I can assure everyone that it will be put to good use”.

Gerry Mc Elroy’s annual senior citizens party and fundraising dance will take place in just 2 weeks. On Friday 15th November the senior citizens party will take place in Lisdoonan Community Centre. After being provided with dinner Country Harmony will entertain the expected large attendance. Gerry has also guaranteed a very special guest on the night. The following night Saturday 16th November USA Country Music legend Robert Mizzell will rock the Lisdoonan Centre. This is always a brilliant night with supper served and all proceeds raised being distributed to local senior citizen groups. Tickets are available from Gerry’s take Away or you can pay on the door.

Are you interested in art and sewing classes? Sewing classes will commence in the studio beside the Ballybay Inn on Tuesday evenings from 6-45pm to 8pm and art classes will commence at the same venue on Thursday evenings from 6-45pm to 8pm. There will also be a kids club on Saturday mornings. Further information is available from Catherine at 087 9353182.

The Latton Bawn Historical Groups 2020 Calendar is available to purchase from any committee member or in McElroy’s shop, Paddy Lynch’s Lisnalong, The Corner Shop Ballybay or Smyths Newsagents Ballybay. Calendars cost €5.00 and would make excellent Christmas presents. You can also Email Catriona at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to order calendars.

Everyone is welcome to a Gospel Meeting in Rockcorry Presbyterian Church Hall (kindly granted) on Friday 1st November 2019 at 8pm. Speaker Brian Parker, new local Faith Mission worker.

Blood donations are very important especially in the wintertime. A blood donation clinic will take place on Thursday 31st October between 4-30pm and 8pm in the sports centre at the rear of the Community College. New and existing donors are most welcome.

Last Saturday in Inniskeen Ballybay Pearse Brothers secured the league title when they defeated Carrickmacross 2-9 to 1-9. The boys last won this title back in 2017. Full report available in the sports pages.

Local quiz buff Stephen Duffy has released his 5th quiz book. His latest book is entitled ‘Let’s Quiz’ and is available in local shops or from Stephen directly. With Christmas just 8 weeks away it would make a great present.

SIt has been announced that St. Patrick’s will no longer have a 12-15pm mass on Holy Days of Obligation that fall during the week. This will affect masses on 1st November, 8th December, 6th January and 15th August. The decision was taken as the priests believe that vigil mass in Ballybay and a mass in Ballintra and Tullycorbet is more than adequate.

Wifi4EU scheme extended across the whole county
In recent weeks, Monaghan Monaghan County Council launched the first phase of its Wifi4EU scheme. Since then broadband officer, John McArdle, has managed to secure two further vouchers under the Wifi4EU scheme. This means that the local authority is now in a position to invite applications from community groups across the whole county which may wish to participate in the free wifi scheme.

A coffee morning and cake sale will be held on Friday 22nd of November 2019 in Hall Street Church Hall.All funds go to centres catering for local children with Special Needs.

Your support would be very much appreciated.

The dates have now been set for Gerry Mc Elroy’s annual senior citizens party and fundraising dance. On Friday 15th November the senior citizens party will take place in Lisdoonan Community Centre. After being provided with dinner Country Harmony will entertain the expected large attendance. Gerry has also guaranteed a very special guest on the night. The following night Saturday 16th November USA Country Music legend Robert Mizzell will rock the Lisdoonan Centre. This is always a brilliant night with supper served and all proceeds raised being distributed to local senior citizen groups. Tickets are available from Gerry’s take Away or you can pay on the door.

It is with great regret that we report the very sad passing of Felix Mc Elvaney from Threemilehouse. Felix is the younger brother of local woman Dolores Maguire. Our thoughts and prayers are with Dolores and the Mc Elvaney family at this sad time. May he rest in peace

Are you interested in art and sewing classes? Sewing classes will commence in the studio beside the Ballybay Inn on Tuesday evenings from 6-45pm to 8pm and art classes will commence at the same venue on Thursday evenings from 6-45pm to 8pm. There will also be a kids club on Saturday mornings. Further information is available from Catherine at 087 9353182.

The annual Parish Dance in aid of sending locals to Lourdes will take place in the Ballybay Pearse Brothers Centre on Friday 1st November. Music on the night will be by Celtic Swing and supper will be served. There will also be loads of spot prizes and the Tullycorbett CCE will be special guests. Tickets are excellent value at just €10.

The annual Parish Dance in aid of sending locals to Lourdes will take place in the Ballybay Pearse Brothers Centre on Friday 1st November. Music on the night will be by Celtic Swing and supper will be served. There will also be loads of spot prizes and the Tullycorbett CCE will be special guests. Tickets are excellent value at just €10.

St. Brigid’s wonderful season came to an end on Sunday last in Dungannon when the local side Edendork knocked them out of the Ulster junior championship 3-20 to 1-14. Despite this the team and management should be very proud of what they have achieved this year. The Drumhowan/Ballybay combination are the county junior championship and league winners and reached the Ulster junior championship semi-final. This is a very young side with a big future and who deserve a winter break. We all look forward to seeing you back in action in 2020.

This year’s Christmas Lights switch on will take place on Friday 29th November in the Square at 7pm. Please put this date in your diary. Santa will be there and there will be presents for every child in attendance.

Ballybay Pearse Brothers exited this year’s championship on Saturday evening last at the hands of reigning champions Scotstown. The foundation for the blues victory were two first half goals which seen the local lads trail 2-6 to 0-7 at the break.  In the second half Ballybay never gave up and at one stage hit 4 unanswered points to reduce the deficit however Scotstown to their credit didn’t panic and ran out 3-12 to 1-13 winners. Full report in the sports pages. The lads are back in action on Saturday when they host Truagh in Pearse park in the league semi final at 4pm.

The Monaghan Branch of the Multiple Sclerosis Society would like to thank everyone who supported their recent church gate collection. The amount raised was €787.

The dates have now been set for Gerry Mc Elroy’s annual senior citizens party and fundraising dance. On Friday 15th November the senior citizens party will take place in Lisdoonan Community Centre. After being provided with dinner Country Harmony will entertain the expected large attendance. Gerry has also guaranteed a very special guest on the night. The following night Saturday 16th November USA Country Music legend Robert Mizzell will rock the Lisdoonan Centre. This is always a brilliant night with supper served and all proceeds raised being distributed to local senior citizen groups. Tickets are available from Gerry’s take Away or you can pay on the door.

A massive attendance and a brilliant night of entertainment best describes Latton OsKaRs Karaoke Night at Lynch’s Bar, Lisnalong on Saturday 21st September. This was Seamus Coyle’s Oskar Fundraiser and at the end of the night Seamus thanked most sincerely all who helped make the night a huge success, those who taken to the stage, Female Winner-Lisa Boylan, Male Winner -James McElroy, Best Dressed-Patrick Deery, Best Dressed Couple - Gillian Harte & Noel Hall. Seamus was also full of praise for Lisa Winters, Jenifer Fitzpatrick, Loretta Dempsey, Raymond Quinn, David Lennon, Gerry Smyth, Annette Hillis and Derek McGorman. The night would also not have been possible but for Paddy & Kate Lynch and staff of Lynch’s Bar who displayed wonderful hospitality and generosity all night. The acts on the nigt were sponsored by the McKenna & Fitzpatrick families, Pat Dempsey & Son, McVeigh Tile & Bathroom, Brendan Smith T.D., Senator Robbie Gallagher, Patrick McDonald, Patricia Quinn, Colm Rayburn, Pat Deery, Eugene & Eoghan Hillis. Annette Atkinson, Gerry & Andrea Coyle, Dunrock, Kevin Gartlan, Paddy & Mary Coyle, Martin Brady, Coyles Pharmacy, Castleblayney, The Glencarn Hotel, Castleblayney, Westenra Arms Hotel, The Squaeling Pig, Monaghan, The Creighton Hotel, Clones and the many others who made very generous donations. Particular thanks are due to Kate Lynch, Caroline Culleton and Máise Smyth for the massive work put in to ensure the success of the night, the other members of the organizing committee, Mary Duffy, Jackie Coyle, Brendan Fitzpatrick, John Coyle and Francis O’Brien, Dermot & Christina Weldon for all their P.R.work, to all who helped on the night, our judges Philip and Helena, Karaoke Nights and all who helped make Latton OsKaRs Karaoke Night an outstanding success.

Everyone is welcome to a Gospel meeting in Rockcorry Presbyterian Church Hall (kindly granted) on Friday 4th October 2019 at 8pm.  The Speaker will be Brian Parker, local Faith Mission worker.

Ann Garraghan will host a Table Quiz in Liam Smyth’s Bar on Friday evening next. Proceedings will get underway at 9pm and all monies raised will be donated to Latton Oskars.

This year’s Christmas Lights switch on will take place on Friday 29th November in the Square at 7pm. Please put this date in your diary. Santa will be there and there will be presents for every child in attendance.

We are having a four week introduction to Skincare in conjunction with CMETB beginning October 8th from 7-10pm. If you need any information on any of our activities or would like to join us just contact any member.

There is lots to report in championship news for all the local teams. Ballybay Pearse Brothers had a 2-16 to 0-12 win over Carrickmacross and on Saturday next they will play Scotstown in the championship semi-final. This is a repeat of last year’s final which Scotstown shaded. The game is in Clontibret at 4-30pm.

Latton have also reached the county semi final thanks to a 1-13 to 0-12 win over Truagh. They will meet Clontibret next weekend in the second semi-final.

This Sunday is a big day for Drumhowan as they meet Blackhill in the Junior championship final. Throw in is at 4-15 in Aughnamullen

RACE NIGHT THANKS

Rosie and Michelle Smyth would like to thank everyone who supported their recent Race Night in Smyth’s Bar. The girls were delighted with the turnout and are very grateful to everyone who sponsored prizes. All the proceeds will be donated to the Latton Oskars fundraiser.

The annual Pink Ribbon Day takes place tomorrow on Friday 4th October. Locals will have an opportunity to support the great work that is being done to combat breast cancer. There will be a number of stalls throughout the town and your support would be very much appreciated. Speaking to the Northern Standard local organiser Paddy Gilmour said, “Every year the people of Ballybay and surrounding areas make an amazing contribution in the fight against breast cancer and I have no doubt this year will be no different. I can assure everyone that every cent donated will be put to good use and I very much appreciate the continued support and generosity of the community”.

We are having a four week introduction to Skincare in conjunction with CMETB beginning October 8th from 7-10pm. If you need any information on any of our activities or would like to join us just contact any member.

Fiona Keenan O Brien will commence dance classes for children  in Christchurch Hall starting on Saturday 5th October. There will be classes for 13 to 15year olds and 16 to 18 year olds. Further information is available from Fiona at 0857123772.

The last game of the season of the outdoor bowling club took place on Thursday 19th September when the Town Tournament final was held. On a beautiful evening we had a superb final between Soda barrels and Lian Smyth’s pub. Patricia Mc Cabe of Soda Barrell had won this competition for the last two years and was looking favourites to get 3 in a row. The game was 13 each going into the last end and it finished with Liam’s team getting one shot to win the shield and trophies. This competition was sponsored by Gerry Mc Elroy who was there to make the presentation in the club pavilion afterwards. Liams team was Jocky Gibson, Barney McElroy, Vinie Reilly, and Paddy Linden. The Ballybay club now go indoor at the usual venue for the Winter months and if there is anyone wishing to play the game of bowls they will be most welcome to join us on any Monday evening at 7-45pm.

This Saturday 28th September Ballybay meet Carrickmacross in the championship in Aughnamullen at 5pm. The winners play Scotstown in the County semi final on Saturday 5th October

Ballybay Cancer are constantly in need of funds to support their work with patients, so the Big Breakfast in Drumhowan on Sunday next the 29th is a chance to donate. The proceeds will be divided between Blayney and Ballybay Cancer. The event is being organised by Drumhowan Community Group and the GAA Club at the request of local people Philip and Jean Carroll. Philip is currently receiving treatment in Dublin and is being helped mainly by Blayney Cancer. But because Drumhowan straddles the areas of Ballybay and Blayney cancer societies, and because the disease doesn’t recognise boundaries, it was decided to support both groups. So come along, eat well, have a bit of chat and support a great cause.

The annual Pink Ribbon Day takes place on Friday 4th October. On that day locals will have an opportunity to support the great work that is being done to combat breast cancer. There will be a number of stalls throughout the town and your support would be very much appreciated. Speaking to the Northern Standard local organiser Paddy Gilmour said, “Every year the people of Ballybay and surrounding areas make an amazing contribution in the fight against breast cancer and I have no doubt this year will be no different. I can assure everyone that every cent donated will be put to good use and I very much appreciate the continued support and generosity of the community”.

Ballybay Pearse Brothers lost their championship game at the weekend to Clontibret 0-13 to 0-12. All is not lost though as they will have another bite at the cherry on Saturday 28th September when they meet Carrickmacross in Aughnamullen at 5pm.

On Saturday last Drumhowan U13’s added the Division 4 championship title to their Feile and League titles won back in June and July. In last weekend’s decider they defeated Rockcorry 5-15 to 0-4. Drumhowan registered 2-5 before Rockcorry opened their account and led at the break 2-7 to 0-2. The local lads continued to dominate the second half and went on to win 5-13 to 0-4.
Team & Scorers:
F Conlon, O Quinn 0-1, M Quinn 0-1, J McEntee ( C ), C McAdam, E Curran, T Doherty 1-5, E Treanor ( C ) 0-2, C Treanor 0-1, D McAdam 0-2, J Lavelle 4-1, N McDermott, T Goodman, D Duffy, T Conlon, F Quinn & T McArdle

There will be a presentation to all the children who took part in the Summer Stars reading Challenge on Wednesday 25th September in Ballybay Sports Hall at 6pm. Any queries contact Pauline in the Library on 042/9714256.

It is with deep regret that we must report a couple of incidents of criminal damage over the weekend. On Friday night a portion of the black metal fence in the Town Park was damaged. On Friday night/Saturday morning branches were broken and then set alight along the Coachman’s Walk. If anyone knows who these culprits are could they please contact the local Gardai.

A programme of events for the annual Culture Night which takes place next week on Friday 20th September has been released. At 5pm there will be an unveiling of mural art photographs on the gable of Mc Ginnity’s wall at the junction of Main Street and Clones Road. These large-scale photographs of Ballybay will be permanently displayed thereafter.
Ballybay Recreation Centre will host youth drama workshops from 6pm until 8pm. The workshops are being held with a view to establishing a youth theatre group on an ongoing basis. This workshop will be conducted by members of the Monaghan Youth Theatre which is based in the Garage Theatre.
The shop next to the Ballybay Inn will be turned into a pop-up art studio and gallery. It will display arts and crafts from classes held on Thursday 19th September. Members of the public are also encouraged to take along photographs of people and places in Ballybay. Using these pictures a collage will be produced.
And finally a variety concert featuring music, song, dance and drama will take place in the Pearse Brothers Centre at 8-30pm.

The final of the Champion of Champions was held on the outdoor green in Enniskillen on Saturday last. In glorious weather a great days bowling ensued and we are pleased to record Seamus Smyth as the winner of the singles. He had a 17 to 6 win over Pat Mc Cabe from Letterkenny. Our rinks team were runners up to Letterkenny after a close and exciting game. The pairs team had a good win over Omagh in the first round but could not match the local Enniskillen side in the next round going down 10 to 8.
On Monday evening the final of the Outdoor Cup was played between Shercock and Ballybay Maroon. This was a very close game finishing with a single point victory for Ballybay 19 to 18. The presentation took place afterwards at the pavilion.
A meeting of the Ballybay indoor club took place during the week to arrange teams. Angela Rutledge presided over the meeting and it was decided to go for 2 teams (the same as last year and to play at the same venue).
The Town Tournament is still going and there were some close and hard fought games during the week. Soda Barrel are into the final but there are still a few games in section two before we find out their opponents.

Liam Smyths Bar will host a Race Night on Saturday 28th September starting at 9pm. All proceeds from the evening are in aid of Rosie and Michelle’s Latton Oskars fundraiser.

You are invited to join us for our Harvest Celebration Service in Rockcorry Presbyterian Church on Sunday 15th September 2019 at 3.30pm. Visiting speaker is Rev Damien Burke from Drogheda Presbyterian Church. Refreshments afterwards.

For the next year Fr. Nicholas Maanzo from the Diocese of Kitui in Kenya will be ministering in the Mid-Monaghan Pastoral Area (Castleblayney, Ballybay, Clontibret, Latton, Rockcorry, Aughnamullen East) for the next year. The parish of Tullycorbet are delighted to welcome Fr. Nicholas and look forward to his involvement in the parish.

A week after winning their first Championship title St. Brigid’s have reached the league final after a tough 4-12 to 3-13 semi-final victory over Killeevan. So the season is far from over as the girls now chase a county double and can also look forward to a tilt at an Ulster title. Congratulations to all involved.

Do you have a project or initiative that could help to increase awareness of environmental issues locally, or that could help your community to become more sustainable?

If so, you may qualify for financial assistance from the

2019 Community Environment Action Fund (previously called Local Agenda 21 Fund). This Fund promotes sustainable development by assisting small scale, non-profit environmental projects at local level.

Does Your Project Qualify?

Projects should focus on environmental awareness and actions which support and complement national environmental policies such as those on waste, biodiversity, water conservation and climate change.

A wide variety of projects and schemes have been supported under the Fund in previous years, including community gardens and allotments, compost schemes, rainwater harvesting, biodiversity projects, waste reduction initiatives, educational initiatives and environmental exhibitions. Lists of previously funded projects can be viewed online at:

http://dccae.gov.ie/en-ie/environment/topics/environmental-protection-and-awareness

Depending on number of applications the maximum grant is expected to be in the region of €1,500

How to Apply

Application forms are available here: Community Environment Action Fund Application Form 2019 (MS Word)

or directly from Environment Services, Monaghan County Council, Carrickmacross, Civic Offices, Carrickmacross. 042 9661240 contact person: Mary McCoy

Applications must be made no later than 5pm Friday 27 September, 2019, on an official application form to the above address or via email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

For general information on the Fund or to discuss a project contact Moira Kelly 042 9661240 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Monaghan Public Participation Network together with the Healthy Monaghan Steering Committee are holding a consultation workshop on Tuesday 10th September in Ballybay Wetlands Centre at 7.30pm. The purpose of the event is to provide the community and voluntary sector and key agencies across County Monaghan with an opportunity to have their say on the development of the Healthy Monaghan Strategy 2019 – 2022. Healthy Monaghan Strategy will set out how County Monaghan will provide a programme of work to improve the health and wellbeing for everyone across County Monaghan.

Please come along and help us work together and gather ideas on what a healthier lifestyle and County would look like.

To register to attend please contact Leona Keenan at 047 73750 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Annie Markey recently celebrated her 60th Birthday and in the process raised €2720 for the Ballybay Cancer Society. Annie would like to thank everyone for their kind donations and those who donated spot prizes and also anyone who helped on the night. Your kindness is very much appreciated.

A programme of events for the annual Culture Night which takes place in just two weeks on Friday 20th September has been released. At 5pm there will be an unveiling of mural art photographs on the gable of Mc Ginnity’s wall at the junction of Main Street and Clones Road. These large-scale photographs of Ballybay will be permanently displayed thereafter.
Ballybay Recreation Centre will host youth drama workshops from 6pm until 8pm. The workshops are being held with a view to establishing a youth theatre group on an ongoing basis. This workshop will be conducted by members of the Monaghan Youth Theatre which is based in the Garage Theatre.
The shop next to the Ballybay Inn will be turned into a pop-up art studio and gallery. It will display arts and crafts from classes held on Thursday 19th September. Members of the public are also encouraged to take along photographs of people and places in Ballybay. Using these pictures a collage will be produced.
And finally a variety concert featuring music, song, dance and drama will take place in the Pearse Brothers Centre at 8-30pm.

Ballybay Pearse Brothers beat Inniskeen on Saturday last 2-14 to 0-14. Their next outing is against Clontibret on Sunday 15th September. Venue and time tbc. Check the sports pages for report on the game v Inniskeen.

History was made last Friday evening in Inniskeen when the girls from St. Brigid’s won the county Junior title. In a tough game against Castleblayney the locals turned around a half time deficit to win 7-4 to 3-9. Jane Drury was the chief tormentor and also won the player of the match award. Michaela Mc Cabe lifted the cup. St. Brigid’s will now represent Monaghan in Ulster.

Monaghan Sports Partnership have organised an 8week Line Dancing programme in Ballybay. Cuan Mhuire will be the venue and the programme will get underway on Monday 23rd September and will run from 7-30pm to 8-30pm. This programme is part of the Get Active, Stay Actice 50+ Programme. The 8 classes will cost just €25. Places must be pre booked at 0429755126.

Tuition is now available in Tullycorbet Community Centre on Wednesday’s from 4-7pm in tin whistle, flute, piano accordion, button accordion, fiddle and banjo/mandolin, guitar, concertina, traditional piano, bodhran, grupai ceoil and ceili band. For further information contact 0872396396.

The Ballybay Social Outing is back after the summer break. The first outing will take place in Cuan Mhuire at 11am on Friday 13th September.

The semi finals of the Outdoor Cup are due to take place this week with Shercock playing Rockcorry and Ballybay Maroon playing Cootehill. All games to be played on the outdoor green, Ballybay starting at 7pm. If all games are played we will have the final on Friday 6th September.
On Saturday 7th September will see the final of the Champion of Champions played in Enniskillen. The Ballybay club will be represented by Seamus Smyth (singles), Jockey Gibson and Brendan Mc Gahey (pairs) and George Berry, Matt Mooney, Seamus Winters and Philip Gibson (rinks). Good luck to all.
We have still some games to play in the Town Tournament but we hope to have most of them played this week as the indoor games will start on Monday 16th September in the usual venue. Our Chairperson Angela Rutledge said we are putting two teams in the Monaghan League this coming season.

Gerry Finlay is hosting the annual Kieran Finlay Golf Tournament on 9th September at Wind Watch Golf and country Club, Hauppage, Long Island, New York. Since the annual tournament started the organisers have donated over €15, 000 to Ballybay Pearse Brothers and Ballybay Cancer Society. If you know anyone from the Ballybay area who is living in New York or if you have golfing friends in the Big Apple why not let them know that this tournament is on. As well as the golf there will be a lavish buffet afterwards in the Shandon Court, East Islip, Long Island.

Line dancing classes commencing 23rd September in Church Street Hall in conjunction with Monaghan Sports Partnership, eight weeks for €25, booking essential.
We are back on Tuesday 24th September with Five Ways To Wellbeing workshop with Miffy Hoad, come along and bring a friend as this is an invaluable workshop to help improve your wellbeing.
We are having a four week introduction to Skincare in conjunction with CMETB beginning October 8th from 7-10pm. If you need any information on any of our activities or would like to join us just contact any member.

A night of Star Performers will take place at Lynch’s Bar, Lisnalong on Saturday 21st September commencing at 9.30pm as Latton GAA prepare for the night of the year -the LATTON OsKaRs. The Karaoke Night is Seamus Coyle’s Fundraiser, with a great night guaranteed. There will be Star Guest Performers and prizes for the best Female and Male performers. Singers from right across the County of Monaghan and adjoining Cavan clubs of Drumgoom & Cootehill will be in attendance. Refreshments will also be served.

Mac Sammon was the overall winner of the Ballybay Golf Society Captain’s Day outing which took place recently in Concra Woods. The full results of the day are available at: ballybaygolfsociety.com

The Monaghan Ladies minor team lost their All Ireland A final to Cork on Monday last. The scoreline certainly did not reflect how close the game was. Monaghan trailed by 3 points ten minutes into the second half when St. Brigid’s Jane Drury was taken down however no penalty was awarded and Cork went up the other end and scored a goal. The seven locals involved Jayne Drury, Michaela Linden, Caoimhe Brennan, Megan Millar (St. Brigid’s), Jane Duffy, Clare Duffy and Emile Culleton (Latton) can all be very proud of the fine year that they have had winning Ulster and reaching the All Ireland A final.

This Saturday 10th August will see the qualifying game of the champion of champions rinks team. This will take place on the bowling green starting at 10-30am and will be played to a finish. Afterwards there will be a presentation of prizes to the singles, pairs and rinks winners. We are very thankful to Gabriel Traynor for sponsoring the prizes for this competition this year. The winner of the singles is Seamus Smyth with Jockey Gibson and Brendan Mc Gahey winning the pairs. They will all go forward to the final in Enniskillen on Saturday 7th September. The final of the local league is due to take place next week with Derryvalley playing Corcaghan for the Jackie Rutledge cup. Tonight (Thursday) will see Corcaghan play St. Michael’s of Cootehill in the outdoor cup quarter final. The Town Tournament got underway during the week with a few qualifying games between Paul Carragher and Darren Smyth and Murnanes taking on last year’s winners the Soda Barrell.

To facilitate priests covering Sunday messes between parishes during the summer holiday time it is necessary to make adjustment to the Sunday Mass schedule on two upcoming Sundays. It will mean the cancellation of the 9-30am Sunday Mass in Tullycorbet on Sunday 25th August and the cancelation of the 11am Sunday Mass in Ballintra on Sunday 8th September.

Gerry Finlay is hosting the annual Kieran Finlay Golf Tournament on 9th September at Wind Watch Golf and country Club, Hauppage, Long Island, New York. Since the annual tournament started the organisers have donated over €15, 000 to Ballybay Pearse Brothers and Ballybay Cancer Society. If you know anyone from the Ballybay area who is living in New York or if you have golfing friends in the Big Apple why not let them know that this tournament is on. As well as the golf there will be a lavish buffet afterwards in the Shandon Court, East Islip, Long Island.

A workshop by Robert Thompson on the identification of damsel and dragonflies will take place in the Wetlands Centre on Thursday 15th August starting at 10am. During this workshop we will look at the features used to identify Ireland’s Dragonfly and Damselfly species, where to find them, and helpful suggestions on identification resources. The morning will consist of a short introduction to the Dragonfly Ireland 2019 – 2024 project, followed by an illustrated talk with particular emphasis on key identification features. In the afternoon we will explore Ballybay Wetlands to practice field skills. This workshop is suitable for beginners and those wishing to refresh their identification skills. The event is being organised by The National Biodiversity Data Centre and Monaghan County Council. If you would like more information on this event check out the County Monaghan Heritage Office facebook page.

A coffee morning in aid of St. Luke’s Hospital Dublin will take place at the home of Clodagh Mc Entee, Knocknamaddy on Saturday 31st August. Tea, coffee and refreshments will be served from 10am until 3pm. Everybody welcome.

Good luck to the local ladies who will be part of the Monaghan minor squad this weekend as they take on Cork in the final. This is the first minor final Monaghan have reached in twenty years. Those involved are Jayne Drury, Michaela Linden, Caoimhe Brennan, Megan Millar (St. Brigid’s), Jane Duffy, Clare Duffy and Emile Culleton (Latton). In the Ulster final they beat Donegal and then Meath in the All Ireland semi-final.

The annual Culture Night will take place on Friday 20th September. Plans for the evening will be available shortly so you may want to keep it free for what should be a lovely evening.

The opening of the Muckno/Ballybay Triathlon club in the park was a huge success and was attended by several hundred people. The committee of the Bowling Club had the green open and we had lots of visitors during the evening so we hope to reap some rewards with some new members. This week sees us play Letterkenny in the Border League of which we are leading by 4 points at the moment.
The Town Tournament is starting this week with Murnanes v Soda Barrell and Darren Smyth’s meeting Paul Carragher. Other games will be arranged in the coming weeks and all games to be played on the bowling green in the Town park.
Tonight Thursday will see the semi final of the local league when St. Michael’s of Cootehill play Derryvalley and Ballybay Maroon take on Corcaghan. These should be two good games and would be well worth a visit.

The annual Cuan Mhuire Novena starts on 7th August and will run until the 15th. More details next week.

All are welcome to come and hear a visiting speaker Colombian Pastor Luis Miguel Hernandez at Corlea Presbyterian Church (Eircode A75 W682) on Sunday 11th August at 4pm when he will speak on his journey, “From Street Child to Pastor”. Our friends Joe and Sadie Law of Mission Possible will give an update on their work with the orphans and abandoned street children of Bogota, Colombia. An offering will be taken up for this worthy cause.

The Ballybay-Clones Fianna Fáil Comhairle Ceanntair wish to very sincerely thank all those who assisted in making the recent Local Elections 2019 Fundraising Draw a great success. The Ticket Sellers, Prize Sponsorers, McCaughey Fuels (Clones), Senator Robbie Gallagher, Cllr. Seamus Coyle, Brendan Smith T.D., Niamh Smyth T.D. and Mike & Martina Durkan. To all who purchased tickets thank you for your generosity. Congratulations to all Prize Winners:

1st Prize-Michael Reilly, Carrickatee.
2nd Prize-Brendan Duffy, Rockcorry.
3rd Prize-Eileen Deery, Tullynahinera.
4th Prize-George McCabe, Drumhowan.
5th Prize-Fiona Keenan O’Brien, Doohamlet.
6th Prize-Anna Smith, Ballybay.
Thank you to all who assisted in making the Comhaile Ceanntair Local Elections 2019 Draw a great success particularly Martina & Mike Durkan who organized the Draw which helped the party campaign greatly in the Ballybay-Clones L.E.A. with the record breaking vote achieved by our candidate, the Cathaorleach of Monaghan County Council, Cllr.Seamus Coyle.

Gerry Finlay is hosting the annual Kieran Finlay Golf Tournament on 9th September at Wind Watch Golf and country Club, Hauppage, Long Island, New York. Since the annual tournament started the organisers have donated over €15, 000 to Ballybay Pearse Brothers and Ballybay Cancer Society. If you know anyone from the Ballybay area who is living in New York or if you have golfing friends in the Big Apple why not let them know that this tournament is on. As well as the golf there will be a lavish buffet afterwards in the Shandon Court, East Islip, Long Island.

Tullycorbett CCE had a very successful Ulster Fleadh. Several members won medals and a number of members qualified for the Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann in Drogheda in August! The medal winners were as follows:

Flute 15-18 - 2nd Mark Ó Tomanaigh, Piano Accordion 12-15 - 1st Laura McMahon, Piano Accordion 15-18 - 2nd Dervla Ní Threasaigh and 3rd Orlaith Brennan, Piano 12-15 - 3rd Laura McMahon, Flute Slow Airs 15-18 - 1st Emer Ruddin, Full Set Ladies U12 - 2nd Tullycorbet, Full Set Ladies 12-15 - 2nd Tullycorbet, Full Set Ladies 15-18 - 1st Tullycorbet, Full Set Mixed U12 -3rd Tullycorbet, Half Set Mixed U18 - 1st Tullycorbet, Sean Nos U12 - 3rd Mary Walsh, Comhra 11-13 - Q Muireann Ní Fhearchair, Comhra 15-18 - Q Dervla Ní Threasaigh and Q Donna Ní Threasaigh, Storytelling 15-18 - 1st Niall Grogan and 2nd Donna Ní Threasaigh, 8 Hand Ladies 15-18 - 1st Foirne Rince Mhuineacháin (Annmarie Lavelle, Aoife Lennon, Sinéad Grogan, Sinéad Duffy), 4 Hand Ladies 12-15 - 1st Foirne Rince Mhuineacháin (Laura McMahon, Rachel, Shauna Lennon), 4 Hand Ladies 15-18 - 2nd Foirne Rince Mhuineacháin Foireann B (Annmarie Lavelle, Aoife Lennon, Sinéad Duffy, Sinéad Grogan), 4 Hand Mixed 12-15 - 1st Foirne Rince Mhuineacháin (Shauna Lennon), 4 Hand Mixed 15-18 - 1st Foirne Rince Mhuineacháin (Annmarie Lavelle, Niall Grogan, Sinéad Duffy), 4 Hand Mixed O18 - 1st Foirne Rince Mhuineacháin (Niall Grogan).