Fr. Mc Eneaney has confirmed that it is the parishes intention to continues with the live streaming of the Mass, each Sunday from St. Patrick’s at 12noon. Parishioners will be able to access the mobile live streaming at : https://www.churchservices.tv/tullycorbet . This mass will be offered for all the people of the parish and for the many human needs and concerns resulting from t

Monaghan County Museum is collecting stories and photographs about our experiences during this time of Covid 19 in Monaghan. Pictures and stories can be on any subject relating to what's happening right now. For full details, go to museum website https://monaghan.ie/museum/

Since our last publication on 2nd April there have been a number of sad passings in the locality. Due to the Corona Virus and in accordance with Government Regulations all funerals were private however funeral masses for the deceased will be held at a later stage. The following deaths have taken place since April 2nd. Fergal (Fergie) Nixon, Ballybay and Castleblayney died peacefully, in the loving care of the staff of the Beaumont Hospital, Dublin on 4th April. Phyllis Connolly (nee McKenna), formerly of Lisgrew, Emyvale and 38 Lough Mor Avenue, Ballybay, Co Monaghan died on Monday 6th April, peacefully at Dunlarg Nursing Home, Keady. The death occurred of Eugene Morgan, Ballybay, Co. Monaghan and formerly of Carrick-on-Shannon and Cheadle Hulme, Cheshire.Eugene on the 10th April in the wonderful care of the Little Sisters of the Poor at the Sacred Heart Residence, Sybil Hill, Dublin 5. Leo Brennan, Lisgorran, Ballybay passed away on 10th April, peacefully in the loving care of the staff of Cavan General Hospital. And Charles Lennon, Woodview House, Carrickmacross Rd, Ballybay and former Shoe Merchant, 51 Main Street, Ballybay, Co. Monaghan died on Sunday April 12th, peacefully, in the tender loving care of the staff at St. Anne’s Nursing Home, Ballybay.
May they all rest in Peace.

The Coachman’s Walk has been busy of late with a lot more people walking it than usual. At this time of year a spring clean is usually organised by the Ballybay Tidy Towns Committee however group litter picks have not been possible owing to the Corona Virus pandemic. With that said anyone who would like to do a litter pick alone and who lives within 2km of the walk can do so. Bags, gloves and litter pickers will be provided by the Tidy Towns Committee and the full nags will be lifted by the Council staff. If interested you private message through the Tidy Towns facebook page.

A number of parishioners have been asking about how they can return their Trocaire Boxes. As of now the parish is asking parishioners to keep the box at home as there is no means of sorting it at parish level. Those who want to can give by callsave to 1850408408 or by donating securely online at http://www.trociare.org/

Monaghan Integrated Development have launched a Good Morning Monaghan phone call service for elderly people who are feeling lonely, isolated or vulnerable at this time. This is a five-day service Monday to Friday where friendly callers will check in to see how they are. It will also assist people who need groceries delivered during the current crisis restrictions. For more information Call Caoimhe Rudden on 04297 49500 or 087 7189396 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Local woman Michelle Smyth recently put a call out asking for donations of food so that it could be distributed to needy families during the coronavirus pandemic. Once again the people of Ballybay and surrounding areas showed their community spirit and generosity and numerous items were donated. Michelle has now distributed these to some needy families and to some elderly residents of the district. Michelle is now in contact with Teach-na-Daoine in Monaghan town about the development of a food bank which will cover both the Ballybay and Monaghan area. Anyone who would like to donate or receive food parcels during this terrible time can contact Michelle on 0863314007. Another alternative for families in need at this time is the local St. Vincent de Paul. The quickest way to get in touch with them is to ring the head office at 1800677777 and they can connect you with the Ballybay committee.

Anthony Loughman from Castleblayney recently shared some youtube links on the Ballybay and its People facebook page. The links show footage from the county finals of 1956 and 1959. This amazing footage was captured by Canon Terence J Kirke, A native of Broomfield. In both finals Ballybay played Clontibret. In 1956 they lost 3-8 to 3-6 however in 1959 the game ended in a draw 2-4 to 1-7. In the replay which was held in Ballybay the Pearse Brothers had a resounding 3-7 to 0-5 victory. If you follow the links through the Ballybay and its People facebok page it really is amazing footage and should evoke lots of memories especially for our older folk.

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.

The new GDPR legislation is a significant change for all organisations big and small that hold and process personal data. Voluntary and community groups will need to overhaul their privacy and data policies in order to be compliant. It includes all types of data whether in the form of contact information or any other sort of personal data eg information about ethnicity, religious belief, or bank account or credit card information.
Monaghan PPN are offering FREE workshops for Community & Voluntary groups associated with Monaghan PPN. Training will be provided by Caroline Egan, Cramden Tech Solutions. Caroline has provided this training in other Counties and the feedback is that this is an excellent course. Monaghan PPN will host 3 Free sessions (1 each in Municipal District) as follows: Thursday 3rd May Carrickmacross Workhouse 6.30pm – 9.30pm (Refreshments served on arrival) Tuesday 8th May St. Josephs Pastoral Centre 6.30pm – 9.30pm (Refreshments served on arrival) Wednesday 16th May Clones Library 6.30pm – 9.30pm (Refreshments served on arrival) PLEASE register to attend and contact Leona at 047-30500 ext 450 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

A Public Consultation evening on the preparation of a Public Realm and Economic Plan for Ballybay will be held in Ballybay Community College on Monday, 30th April, 2018 from 4pm-8pm. Members of the public are encouraged to drop in and have their say as to how the town of Ballybay should be developed over the coming years.
Monaghan Co. Council has appointed Consultants, The Paul Hogarth Company, to prepare the Public Realm and Economic Plan and they will be working in close consultation with the local community. Further details can be obtained from the offices of Ballybay-Clones Municipal District at 047-51018.

The annual church gate collection in aid of the Holy Family School will take place at all masses this weekend 28th/29th April. Your kind support for this very worthy cause would be very much appreciated.

The annual Dorinda Carnew Memorial Walk in aid of the County Monaghan Branch of Multiple Sclerosis will take place in Ballybay on Thursday 3rd May. The walk will commence at 7pm from the Ballybay Inn. Sponsor cards are available from the fabric Centre Monaghan or the Ballybay Inn or by contacting 0872206703.

Congratulations to Bernadette Duffy from Latton who appeared on Winning Streak last Saturday night. Bernie who works in the local creche scooped an amazing €40, 000. She bought her lucky ticket in Smyth’s Newsagents, The Square, Ballybay.

Ballybay Camera Club invite locals with an interest in photography to share their pictures to the Ballybay and Its People Facebook page. This month (May) the theme will be open. Remember the rules maximum four pictures per person related to the theme and off course taken locally in and around Ballybay. You don't need an expensive camera and you can even take them on your phone. If anyone has any ideas for other themes you can either post on the page or contact Dolores Maguire at 086 8340501.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

See poster here.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Local man and former Northern Standard journalist Adrian Harte has just completed writing a biography of San Francisco rock band ‘Faith No More’. The book will be published in September by Jawbone Press in the UK and will be entitled Small Victories – the true story of Faith No More. The book is now available for pre-order before its release in September and early interest has been such that the book rocketed to number 2 in the Amazon UK heavy metal new releases chart. Adrian’s research was meticulous. In interviewed 45 people for the book resulting in a 110 hours of audio files to transcribe. The final word count is 120, 000 edited down from a first draft of 170, 000. The word FAITH appears 801 times. Adrian is also editor of the popular Faith No More 2.0 website and media intelligence manager at European football organisation UEFA. Speaking about the book he said. “I’m extremely grateful to Jawbone Press for giving me this opportunity to tell the true story of Faith No More. I hope that the book – written with the diligence of a journalist but the passion of a fan – will do justice to this captivating band and give Faith No More the book it deserves.” For book updates between now and publication follow @faithnomore20 and http://scanmail.trustwave.com/?c=6600&d=0unL2sKBG-VYeRKBb0gXvTeuggnhPvvCFPwlOPJ9ZA&s=393&u=http%3a%2f%2ffaithnomorebook%2ecom

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ballybay man Vincent Mc Aviney recently achieved a hole in one while playing the 15th hole of the Royal Jersey Golf Club. This is the second time Vincent has scored a hole in one at the course and believe it or not his playing partner on the day Neil Wade had also been with him when he managed his first hole in one two years ago. The success was reported in the Jersey Evening Post on 19th April.

Good Luck to our Under 10 Mixed Gaelic Football team managed by Peter Ward. Team - Adam Dixon, Caolan Treanor, Dara Mc Elmeel, Jason Sheridan, Joseph Lennon,Michael Mc Mahon, Nathan Duffy, Oisin Duffy, Oisin Quinn, Sam Duffy, Sean Ward, Simon Du Plessis, Shane Duffy, Shane Eoghan Duffy, Stephen Duffy and Thomas Conlon. Good luck to Katie Glynn in the Handwriting competition taking place Thursday and Friday evening in Castleblayney. Anyone interested in Talent, Culture Corner, Choir or Pitch n Putt please contact Sharon 9748110 or Maire 9748955 before Wednesday 3rd May.

St. Brigid's had a great turn out at their Table Quiz which took place on Friday 7th April in Ballybay Pearse Brothers Centre. We would like to thank a few people who helped to organized the event Ann Mc Guirk, Eileen Brennan, Collette Mc Meel, Linda Mc Geough, Patricia Gibson and the St. Brigid's committee members, we would also like to thank the Ballybay Pearse Brothers for the use of the Clubhouse and to Stephen Duffy (The Quiz Master). Thanks to all the Parents and Kids for coming and taking all the refreshments. Finally we would like to thank the Senior Girls that got the spot prizes for the raffle on the night from local business. The Club would like to thank these business for donating the spot prizes and also would like to thank the business for their continuing support, Ballybay Service Station, Ballybay Pharmacy, Bills Butchers Ballybay, H2O Sheila Mc Cabe, H2O Sharron Sheridan, Ballybay China Town, Bluebells Ballybay, Cuan Mhuire Ballybay, Centra Ballybay, Ann Mc Guirk, Julie Mc Guirk and Mc Nally's Service Station Monaghan. If we have left anybody out were truly sorry.

Ballybay Tidy Towns is holding a public meeting on Thursday 4th May at 8pm above the library. We are looking for plenty of volunteers to help with the spring clean up!! This will take place on Saturday 20th May. Please come and give your help to improve the area in which you live. - Whether that is in the town, residential areas or the outskirts of the town. Do your bit to make our community the best it can be. Contact Eithne 0868218706 or Olivia 0876481082 if you have any queries.

Thank you everybody who supported Alice Crawford's Mad Hatter Tea Party. It was a beautiful sunny day and so many people joined us for Tea, Coffee and cakes. Thank you to everyone who gave generous donations to support the Future Sense Development Projects in India. A fabulous €2000 was raised. Joanne Morgan won the IPod Touch in the Dingbat Quiz. We really appreciate everyone who helped behind the scenes on the day and we thank everybody for their generosity.

Tullycorbett Drama Group will stage ‘For Love or Money’ one final time in Tullycorbett Community Centre on May Bank Holiday Monday (1st May). The curtain’s up at 8-30pm sharp and all proceeds from the performance are in aid of Ballybay Cancer Society.

Classes have now resumed after the Easter break. This will be a busy term as branch members prepare for the County Fleadh and the London College of Music examinations. In preparation for the County Fleadh, the branch have been liaising with the Ballybay Chamber of Commerceand a comprehensive programme of events is being planned. Full details will be given next week.

Monaghan Integrated Development in partnership with Third Age in Co Meath is facilitating a Fáilte Isteach group to start in Ballybay. Fáilte Isteach groups are running all over Ireland and involve volunteers welcoming migrants into the community through weekly English conversation classes. We are looking for volunteers from the Ballybay area who are interested in becoming involved. No experience or qualifications are necessary as training and ongoing support is provided.

If you have two hours spare a week, would like to meet new people and wish to put your talents to good use while making a difference, why not get involved.

Making the first step is easy, all you have to do is contact Regina Byrne, Monaghan Integrated Development, tel: 042-9749500, Ext. 5 or e -mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Fáilte Isteach is supported by Monaghan Integrated Development under the social inclusion programme SICAP. The Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP) 2015 – 2017 is funded by the Irish Government and co-funded by the European Social Fund and includes a special allocation under the Youth Employment Initiative.

Tullycorbett Drama Group has agreed to put on one last performance of their successful play “For the Love of Money” in aid of Ballybay Cancer Society. This performance will take place in Tullycorbett Community Centre on Monday 1st May with the curtain up at 8-30pm. Great night guaranteed with all proceeds to a very worthy cause.

Ballybay Mental Health Association is not holding their Social Club meeting in Cuan Mhuire this month. The next scheduled meeting is Friday 12 May. The usual activities and meals plus bingo plus the possibility of other surprises will happen in the presence of Stephen, Sharon and Gabriel. Everybody invited. Apologies for the cancellation of this month`s. Suggestions for the annual bus outing in June are welcomed. On Monday 27th March last the group accepted an invitation from Ardaghey Social Services to their wonderful afternoon of 60 people with food, exercises, raffle, bingo, music and dance and friendship.

Entries from sixth class pupils at the six local Primary Schools have been received by the branch committee who are organising an Essay Project with the theme: Friendship. A number of late entries are still expected. Awards and certificates will be presented at a function for students, parents and teachers in Cuan Mhuire on Friday 28 April.

The Ballybay Outdoor Bowling Club will have their first competitive game on Wednesday 26th April. They will be away to Dungannon, a place that is hard to get points in but with a lot of practice from the Ballybay side its hoped to get a hsrae of the points.
We were informed during the week that the Strule team from Omagh has withdrawn from the Border Copunties league. That will leave some free evenings for other competitions. Our green is in fine order this year and will be open each evening at 7pm where all are encouraged to attend. None of the Town Tournament games took place just yet but this week should see the start with Liam Smyth’s Bar meeting Paul Carragher’s Fruit and Veg shop. A lot of games are to be played on Tuesday 2nd May when they get in some practice.

Monaghan County Museum is currently hosting an exhibition entitled “The Watchmen” which looks at policing and crime and punishment in Monaghan. As part of the exhibition visitors will learn about ‘The Infamous Sam Gray of Ballybay’. Gray was an Orangeman and owner of the York Hotel, Main Street (Sloweys Bar) who was eventually prosecuted for minor offences despite carrying out numerous terrible atrocities. The exhibition also covers ‘The attack on Ballytrain Barracks’ which was the first Barracks north of the Boyne to be attacked during the War of Independence. The exhibition runs until December at the Museum in Monaghan Town and is completely free.

On Friday 28th April at Lisdoonan shop there will be a coffee day in aid of the Ballybay, Carrickmacross and Castleblayney Cancer Groups. Tea, coffee and other refreshments will be served from 9-30am until 5-30pm. Why not pop along and support three great charities.

The Dorinda Carnew memorial walk in aid of MS Ireland will take place on Thursday 4th May at 7pm. This annual event will start at the Ballybay Inn. Sponsor cards are available from the Ballybay Inn or the Fabric Centre Monaghan.

Now that the outdoor green has its annual power wash all is now ready for the coming season. It is open every evening from 7pm for practice and also during the day for anyone that wishes to avail of the quieter time. It is hoped to start the town league this week with Liam Smyth’s taking on Paul Carragher’s also Joseph Crawford’s meeting Olivia Duffy’s Employment office. The Care chemist will meet Stephen Drury’s Supermarket. A full list of the draw is posted in the club pavilion.
The draw for the local league has been completed this week and is also posted on the notice board. There is 14 clubs taking part in this year’s league which is on Mondays and Fridays. With the first game taking place on Monday 1st May between Ballybay Whites and Ballybay Maroon who are both in section A. On the same date St. Michael’s of Cootehill will play Ardaghey.
The border counties list of games is also posted in the pavilion with our first game away to Dungannon on Wednesday 26th April starting at 7pm.
With all these matches to be played all we need is some fine weather. Another date for your diary is Saturday May 13th when we are going to Fivemiletown for the return match of the Vincent cup but more about that later.

There will be a Mega Zumba session in Ballybay Community Sports Hall on Saturday 22nd April at 11am to raise funds for 108km Pink Ribbon Cycle taking place the following Saturday. The morning is guaranteed to burn calories, be fun and raise money for a very good cause!! 1The cost is just €10 and includes a cuppa and treat afterwards. Wear something pink!!

Ballybay Community Créche are holding a "Family & Community Appreciation Fun Run or Walk" in the Town Park on Saturday 6th May @ 10am. We encourage people from community to take part. You do not have to be connected to the créche to come along. This is sure to be a very enjoyable event. It will be followed with entertainment, refreshments and a raffle in the créche.

Come and join us at 7.00am on Easter Sunday morning in the grounds of First Ballybay Presbyterian Church, Clones Road, Ballybay, as we celebrate the risen Lord Jesus with singing, prayer, Bible readings and a short meditation by Rev Dr Jean Mackarel, Presbyterian minister in Cavan and presenter of Airs & Praises on Northern Sound. If it is wet we will meet in Derryvalley Hall.
Everyone is welcome and a light breakfast will be provided afterwards in Derryvalley Hall.

Ballybay Mental Health Association are holding the next Social Club meeting in Cuan Mhuire not on Good Friday this week but on the following Friday 21 April. The usual activities and meals plus bingo plus the possibility of other surprises will happen in the presence of Stephen, Sharon and Gabriel. Everbody invited. Suggestions for the annual bus outing in June are welcomed. On Monday 27th last the group accepted an invitation from Ardaghey Social Services to their wonderful afternoon of food, exercises, raffle, bingo, music and dance and friendship.

Entries from sixth class pupils at the six local Primary Schools have been received by the branch committee who are organising an Essay Project with the theme: Friendship. A number of late entries are still expected. Awards and certificates will be presented at a function for students, parents and teachers in Cuan Mhuire on Friday 28 April.

Cuan Mhuire is holding a Flower Festival later this month. The festival will run for three days from 21st to the 23rd April. Everyone welcome.

Locals were left stunned in Ballybay on Thursday morning (6th April) when a statue of Our Lady of Lourdes appeared in the centre of the altar. The same statue was at the back of St. Patrick’s during the Wednesday morning mass. The statue which is large and heavy somehow made it ways up the aisle to the altar between Wednesday afternoon and Wednesday night. It took four men to return the statue to its original position. Fr. La Flynn speaking on Northern Sound radio said that in his opinion the statue was not moved by “miraculous intervention”. If anyone has any idea how the statue managed to travel from the back of the church to the altar – the Ballybay News Correspondent would love to hear from you.

A fashion show in aid of Fingers and Toes Childcare will be held in the Latton O Reilly GAA Centre on Saturday night 8th April at 8pm sharp. Patrons will receive a complimentary glass of Prosecco on arrival. There will be music after the show and loads of spot prizes on the night, Should be a great night.

On Saturday next there will be a 5k and 10k fun run/walk in Aughnamullen in aid of Ballybay Cancer Society. The event will start at the Social centre at 11am however registration will take place from 9-30am. Everyone welcome.

St. Brigid's Ladies GFC is holding a table quiz on Friday the 7th of April at 8pm in Ballybay Pearse Brothers Centre. Its € 20 for a table 4 and refreshments will be served on the night. The club will also be holding a raffle on the night and would appreciate it if locals would please come out and give your support to the Club.

The Tullycorbett Drama group presented a 3 act comedy called “For Love or Money” in their Community Centre last Friday and Sunday. A further performance will take place on Friday 7th April. Everyone welcome.

A meeting of the Ballybay/Clones Comhairle Ceanntair will take place in Liam Smyths Bar, Ballybay on Monday next 10th April at 9pm. All party members and supporters are invited to attend. Local Oireachtas members Brendan Smith T.D. ,Niamh Smyth T.D. ,Senator Robbie Gallagher and Senator Deirmuid Wilson and Monaghan County Councilor Seamus Coyle will attend.

The Annual General Meeting of the Ballybay Cumann of Fianna Fail will take place on Monday evening next10th April at 8pm in Liam Smyths Bar,Ballybay. All Cumann Members and supporters are requested to attend. Oireachtas Members and local Councilor will attend.

Locals are invited to a Gospel Meeting in the Faith Mission Hall, Bushford, Rockcorry tomorrow Friday 7th April  at 8pm. Organised by Ronnie & Carey Killops of the Faith Mission.  All welcome. Plan to come, and bring a friend. Refreshments afterwards.

Alice Crawford invites you to her Mad Hatters Tea Party in Springfield. Ballybay on Saturday 8th April anytime from 10:30 am to 4 pm. This event is in aid of Future Sense Foundation which supports development projects in India. Alice will be doing voluntary work with children in Northern India during July. There will be a play and craft area for children. There will also be a cake stall supporting Christchurch. Ballybay. Come along and bring a friend for a cuppa and a natter !

Monaghan County Museum is currently hosting an exhibition entitled “The Watchmen” which looks at policing and crime and punishment in Monaghan. As part of the exhibition visitors will learn about ‘The Infamous Sam Gray of Ballybay’. Gray was an Orangeman and owner of the York Hotel, Main Street (Sloweys Bar) who was eventually prosecuted for minor offences despite carrying out numerous terrible atrocities. The exhibition also covers ‘The attack on Ballytrain Barracks’ which was the first Barracks north of the Boyne to be attacked during the War of Independence. The exhibition runs until December at the Museum in Monaghan Town and is completely free.

‘Pretty Safe Pretty Seen’ is the theme selected by three young Ballybay Students as they hope for success in the National Junk Kouture competition. Lauren Duffy, Sinead Grogan and Lorna Hand who attend Ballybay Community College have spent the last 7 months recycling old high vis vests, cassette tapes, plastic balls and Christmas lights to make their costume for Junk Kouture. The trio made it through the selection process and then past the Regional finals to reach the National final which will take place in the 3Arena on 27th April. Lauren will model the costume however part of the overall marks come from an online vote which has been taking place since last Monday and which runs until Friday 14th April. The good news is that all locals can help the girls. To do so you must log into Facebook every 24 hours, go to the BOIstudents page, scroll to find the photo of Lauren and click to vote.

As part of Seachtain naGaeilge and to co-incide with St. Patrick's Day, Ballybay-Clones Municipal District held 'Comfortas na bhFuinneog 2017' for the 'best use of irish language in a window display'. Well done to Ballybay Pharmacy who were the winners and all the other businesses/organisations who participated. Some photographs attached.

A fantastic day for Daffodil Day all around the Country! The people from Ballybay and surrounding areas donated so willingly and generously to make our Daffodil Day such a success. €7710 raised will stay in our County to helping the people in our area to get through Cancer. We couldn't have done it without you. We have a brilliant team of willing and loyal volunteers who have been helping out over the years since Daffodil Day began 30years ago, and this year was no different. There was great enthusiasm from everyone to get involved in this great fundraising annual campaign for patients and their families suffering or recovering from Cancer. We also had new Volunteers who were there to help out on the day. A big thank you to everyone. The Cake Sale and Coffee morning was a lovely way of meeting people and thank you to those who helped out, the Transition Year from Ballybay Community College who baked for it, other members of the public who left in lovely homemade cakes and scones, hampers for a raffle and all those who came in to have a cuppa and donate, those that helped out serving out to everyone. A total of 60 volunteers were involved in some way or other, and without those people, we simply couldn't have done it. These Volunteers sincerely love to give their time, energy, and enthusiasm to Daffodil Day. A big thanks to all the students from St.Oliver Plunkett's National School, Loughmourne also got involved by donating €433 which was the money they raised from their Lá Glás.
All this money provides services to all people who are affected by cancer in County Monaghan. Your support is always crucial to our outstanding success of Daffodil Day. Every Daffodil, key ring, fresh daffodils or other merchandise sold, supports programmes that prevent cancer, save lives from cancer and help people face cancer to cope and maintain the highest possible quality of life. The National Cancer Helpline1800 200 700 is invaluable to people who need to talk things over and get advice.
Everyone who so generously donated in anyway, should be very proud that they helped make Ballybay Daffodil Day 2017 a huge success. Ballybay Daffodil Day Co-Ordinators Joe and Dolores Maguire sincerely thank you for your continued support.

Ballybay Chamber of Commerce would like to congratulate the newly formed Ballybay Drama Group on their very successful maiden performance. Their first production packed the Pearse Brothers centre on three consecutive nights last weekend. Many people are eagerly awaiting the next production.

The AGM of the Ballybay Outdoor Bowling Club took place on Monday 20th March in the club pavilion. As usual it was very well attended with representatives from most clubs that take part in the local league present. The Chairman Benny Smyth extended a warm welcome to all and thanked all those that contributed to the running of the club in the past year. The secretary Cora read the minutes and the treasurer Bertie gave a detailed report on the finances during the year which all agreed were in a very healthy state, despite having to host the champion of champions in 2016. The President Uel Gamble then congratulated all on the smooth running of the club in the past year and said it was a wonderful achievement for the Ballybay club to win the singles, pairs and rinks in the champion of champions. They also won the Mc Gurk Shield and only failed by one point in winning the league. The Chairman gave a detailed report on all the events that took place in our club for the past year. He was very pleased that the Monaghan Co. Council provided the extra 14 car parking spaces and also was great to see the offending trees removed as they caused a lot of damage to the green.
The election of Officers then took place and as all members present were happy with the committee it was duly returned. The members of the selection committee was also elected and it was downsized to 4 persons namely Seamus Winters, Malachy Mc Skeane, Benny Smyth and George Barry. They will meet on Monday evenings at 7pm on the week that there is a game.
It is hoped that the green will get its annual power washing in the second week in April but in the meantime the green will be open each evening from 6pm for practice. All the clubs that took part in the local league last year have indicated they are participating again this season which will commence on Monday 1st May. All clubs will get their playing dates in the next few weeks. The meeting concluded with the Chairman wishing all a good years bowling.

St. Brigid's Ladies GFC is holding a table quiz on Friday the 7th of April at 8pm in Ballybay Pearse Brothers Centre. Its € 20 for a table 4 and refreshments will be served on the night.  The club will also be holding a raffle on the night and would appreciate it if locals would please come out and give your support to the Club.

A talk on the O’Rahilly, the World, Ireland and Latton 1917 will take place in The O'RAHILLY GAA CENTRE on Friday next, 31st March at 8pm. It will be delivered by PhD Scholar in History and Theology in Dublin City University and a member of the G.A.A. National Committee for History & Communications, Gary Carville, former Mayor of County Monaghan and Chairman of Monaghan GAA. Everyone is invited to attend what will be a very informative evening. Refreshments served.

The Latton Annual Awards presentations will take place in the O'Rahilly GAA Centre on Saturday next, 1st.April, commencing with a wine reception at 7.30pm, food served at 8.30pm sharp. Music by The Davis Bros. Tickets available from all club executive members, many awards will be presented on the evening including Halls of Fame, Players of the year etc.etc.

There will be a Mega Zumba session in Ballybay Community Sports Hall on Saturday 22nd April at 11am to raise funds for 108km Pink Ribbon Cycle taking place the following Saturday. The morning is guaranteed to burn calories, be fun and raise money for a very good cause!! 1The cost is just €10 and includes a cuppa and treat afterwards. Wear something pink!!

Art, Model-making, Handwriting, Project, Gaelic Football, Soccer indoor and outdoor, Camogie, Hurling, Rounders, Skittles and Handball  - Anyone interested in any of the above activities please contact Sharon 042 9748110 or Maire 042 9748955 asap.

Bike Week Duathlon
www.mucknotri.com

Annual Clones Lace Summer Workshops
www.cloneslace.wordpress.com

Clones Canal Festival
www.clonescanalfestival.com
June 5th - June 7th

Monaghan County Fleadh
www.comhaltas.com
2nd June 2016 – 5th June 2016

Boogie in the Bog

https://twitter.com/boogieinthebog

Lough Egish, a village in the south of the county that has developed on the shores of the lake that gives the village its name, has developed as an industrial nucleus. Lough Egish Dairy Co-operative and Dairy Society established there in 1901 and currently operate as Lakeland Dairies. The village has become an established industrial area, with particular regard for food processing and distribution.

Access
Lough Egish is located along a Regional Road axis and is just 10 minutes from the National Road network at Castleblayney and Carrickmacross which provides good journey times to the country’s ports and airports.

Table – journey times (mins)

Business Space

Castlecool Food Park
In 2012 Castlecool launched the second phase of its 62 acre Food Park. In a county with a dominant food processing industry, the Food Park plays a critical role in the supply chain industry. A flexible and efficient distribution and logistics network allows for the coordination of inputs and outputs in a cost effective, safe and efficient way to meet the demands of internal and export markets, making the Food Park ideal for food processing and manufacturing companies.

The Food Park and the Lough Egish Area is home to a number of national and international brands including:

• Agro Merchants agromerchants.com/location/lough-egish/ +353 42 9745134
• Cooltrim Oil Co Ltd +353 42 974 5908
• Gaffey Motors +353 42 974 5034
• Glanbia www.glanbia.com
• Lakeland Dairies www.lakeland.ie +353 49 436 4200
• Lavelle Hardware +353 42 974 5915
• Malones www.malonefoods.ie +353 42 97 45102
• Platinum Tanks www.platinum-tanks.ie +353 42 974 5780/81
• Rangeland Foods www.rangelandfoods.com +353 42 974 5132
• SFS Steel Formed Sections www.steelformedsections.ie Tel: +353 42 974 5700
• Swift Fine Foods www.swiftfinefoods.com +353 42 974 5435
• Swift Valley Trading +353 42 969 0831

The facility has a two million gallon per day potable water supply, its own on-site electricity supply substation, piped natural gas and effluent treatment system. Units on site range from 650 square metres to 1,850 square metres along with sites available for new build. The Castlecool 16,800 square metre chill facility offers eight segregated stores which range in temperature from ambient, chill, deep chill and frozen. The 11 dock levellers and indoor tautliner loading facility, make it an ideal location for cross docking, value added services such as blast freezing, order picking and food testing, and support services such as telesales, order management and other outsourcing business functions. To companies located in the Food Park, the facility also provides national and international distribution capabilities and groupage services to the UK and Europe.

Other available business space:
At Lough Egish a number of other facilities are available, including 3,300 square metres of recently constructed industrial/business units.

Water services
Lough Egish has ample provision for water supply and treatment. The current demand for drinking water for the Lough Egish / Castleblayney / Ballybay area is 4,200 m³/day with a treatment capacity of 8,000 m³/day.

May Festival Ballybay 
Fleadh ’64 www.fleadh64.com

March
Ballybay – St Patricks Day Festival 17th March

June
Monaghan County Fleadh www.comhaltas.com
Clones Canal Festival www.facebook.com/canalcapers/
Annual Clones Lace Summer Workshops ulstercanalstoresvisitorcentre.ie

July- August
Coarse Angling Competition www.clonescoarseanglers.net
Ulster GAA Senior Football Final, Clones www.ulster.gaa.ie/fixtures-and-results/football/

October
Clones Film Festival www.clonesfilmfestival.com

December
Santa Visit www.facebook.com/ballybaychamber