Gerry Mc Elroy's latest fundraiser in aid of the of St. Anne’s and St. Mary’s Comfort Funds has raised over €5000. On Thursday last Gerry presented cheques to the value of €2750 to each of the units. The money was raised through the proceeds of the re-opening night and donations made by Gerry's customers. Gerry had planned to wind down the fundraiser however people are still wanting to make donations. These can be made at the local credit union in Ballybay. The fundraising account details are IBAN: IE63BLEN99224100685906 - BIC: BLENIE21XXX. Speaking to the Ballybay News Gerry said, "I am delighted on behalf of myself and the family and the staff of the Take Away and Veg factory to be able to present a small token to the comfort funds at the nursing homes in Ballybay and Castleblayney. Without the generosity and continued support of the people of Ballybay and surrounding areas this would not have been possible. So once again thank you most sincerely".

Due to the coronavirus the Sacrament of Confirmation was not celebrated in the Diocese of Clogher this spring. New arrangements for the celebration of Confirmation will be put in place once the pandemic has passed. In the short term, Bishop Larry Duffy along for Fr. Stephen Joyce who was a priest in the parish, invite all Confirmation girls and boys, their parents and school community to join in an ONLINE end of school year mass from St. Joseph’s, Monaghan this evening Thursday 28th May at 8pm. The webcam link is https://www.mcnmedia.tv/camera/st-josephs-church-park-street-monaghan

On Monday last Latton postman Kieran Black celebrated his 60th Birthday. Due to the corona virus it is not possible to celebrate with a party however the Latton community did not forget his big Birthday and he received many well wishes as he delivered his post.

First Holy Communion in the parish should have taken place last Saturday however due to the coronavirus pandemic it has been postponed. Since last October the boys and girls under the guidance of Miss Mc Dermott had been preparing for the sacrament. A new arrangement will be made once the pandemic has passed.

This appeal (Trocaire Box/Purple Envelope) will run until the end of May. Understandably the Trocaire Lenten Campaign this year has been very badly hit by the Covid 19 pandemic and Bishop Larry is asking people across the diocese including those in our own parish to return the purple envelope and to do so before the end of May. Donations to Trocaire can also be made online.

The Irish Chaplaincy in London is offering support to anyone in Ireland with concerns about older family members or friends living in London at this challenging time. The Chaplaincy can make direct contact with vulnerable older Irish living but isolated in London. The Chaplaincy is also a link to services and community groups on the ground local to where a person is living in London. This service is free so if you have a family member or friend in London that you have concerns about you can either email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or telephone 0044 20 7482 3274.

Donations are still coming in for Gerry Mc Elroy’s fund raiser in aid of St. Anne’s and St. Mary’s Comfort Funds. Gerry, his Family and the staff were overwhelmed by the generosity and support shown to date for these worthy causes. Gerry cannot give a final figure at this time as donations are still coming in. If anyone didn’t get a chance to donate and would like to its not too late. You can do so in the Credit Union or online to a special designated Credit Union account. The details of this account are: IBAN: IE63BLEN99224100685906 - BIC: BLENIE21XXX.

The Library can deliver books to anyone who is cocooning or self-isolating. This service is free and you do not need to be a member. The demand for this service has been very high and as a result the Library Service have decided to take calls directly through selected Libraries rather than asking you to go through the Community Support Helpline. Those in the Ballybay Area should contact 047 74712 to avail of the service. You can also email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Don't forget, this service is for ANYONE who is Cocooning or in Self Isolation - whether you are a Library Member or not! Library staff will be available to take delivery requests from Monday to Friday, 10am - 4pm. Please have your Eircode available.

Drumhowan Gaa club recently participated in a very successful run4pieta. On Sunday evening last the club reported that they had walked, jogged, cycled and crawled over 1,375.5 kms and we have raised over €5000 for Pieta House! There are a number of great pictures on the clubs facebook page and it is intended to create an album of pictures so please keep them coming to the page.

The Road Safety Authority of Ireland is holding a ‘Hi-Glo Silver Poster Competition’ and the good news is that a poster designed by second class in Social Eanna has made the last five. The winning poster will be the one from the school who receives the most likes on the RSA facebook page. On Monday evening Scoil Eanna’s entry was in third place so with voting not finishing until 4pm on Friday 5th June there is still a great chance for them to win. So please go to the RSA facebook page and like the Scoil Eanna entry. Can you ask your friends and family to do likewise.

On Friday 22nd May and Saturday 23rd May Ballybay Pearse Brothers are asking all players, supporters and the local community to get involved with a fundraising event for Pieta House. The club want all involved to participate in this fun event, to see how far they can walk/run in 24 hours as a club and to raise awareness for mental health. Walking/running must be done within the 5km Government/HSE-Covid19 guidelines). The club would like to encourage all club players, supporters and our club community to put on your club colours and get involved. Each person/family will be allocated a half hour slot to walk/run. The event will start at 7.30pm on Friday 22nd May running through to 7.30pm on Saturday 23rd May. Text Barry 087 2589371 or Teresa on 086 1691304 with your preferred time slot. When you have completed your walk/run please text the total distance covered (remembering that family of four walk 5km its 4 x 5km = 20km). Donations can be made via the link which is available on the Pearse Brothers facebook page. The clubs facebook page is already littered with fantastic pictures and video’s promoting the event and families are encouraged to post their pictures on the facebook page after the event. Good luck to all.

The Council has decided to reserve access in Lakeside Park (more commonly known as the Town Park) from 9-30am until11am for cocooners and those who are medically vulnerable. Your co-operation with this request would be very much appreciated.

The BBC Sports Department are currently running a series entitled ‘My Greatest Game’. The idea is that a retired inter-county player recalls his greatest game. This week the series featured Ballybay’s own legend Paul Finlay. The wing forward had declared that Monaghan’s Ulster final 0-13 to 0-7 win over Donegal in 2013 is a memory that will stay with him for the rest of his days. Check out the article at: https://www.bbc.com/sport/gaelic-games/52608364

Last week we reported that Gerry’s Take-Away was back up and running and that Gerry planned to donate the first night’s takings to the St. Anne’s and St. Mary’s Comfort Funds. Gerry, his Family and the staff were overwhelmed by the generosity and support shown for these worthy causes. Gerry cannot give a final figure at this time as donations are still coming in. If anyone didn’t get a chance to donate and would like to its not too late. You can do so in the Credit Union or online to a special designated Credit Union account. The details of this account are: IBAN: IE63BLEN99224100685906 - BIC: BLENIE21XXX.

Since last week’s publication there have been a couple 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 last week’s edition. Packie Lambe, Formill, Shantonagh. Peter Daly, Drumullard, Shantonagh. Dympna Rice (nee Sweeney), Dernasell East, Scotstown and Patrick (Paddy) O Brien, Mahon, Latton.
May they all rest in Peace.

With no masses these days a number of parishioners have been wondering how they can contribute their weekly offering to the church. Three options have been identified for anyone who wishes to contribute. Option 1 is by standing order. A standing order form is available on the http://www.tullycorbetparish.com/ website and hard copies are available in the entrances to the three local churches. If interested in this method then just fill out the form and leave it into the parish office at the priests house. It is important that you insert your name and parish envelope number. Option 2 is to date via on-line banking. This way you can decide if you want to make a once off, weekly, monthly or annual subscription. If you do decide to use this method then the account name is Tullycorbet parish, the BIC is BOFIIE2D and the IBAN is IE12BOF190323485370421. Option 3 is to contribute electronically through the https://www.clogherdiocese.ie/ web page. On the page there is a donate box which when clicked on will allow you to donate once off or monthly. You simply select the amount, the parish of your choice (Tullycorbet) and follow the simple instructions.
http://fr.mc/ Mc Eneaney has acknowledged that lots of parishioners have been donating to the parish in various ways since the pandemic stopped all masses.

A number of locals have taken to Social Media to thank people at this torrid time. Here is a selection. Caroline Chambers wrote, “I would like to give a big thank you to my uncle Danny’s carers Sandra Moffett and Hazel Mc Bride and to the Ballybay Garda who has been checking in on him”.
David Lane said, “Today is Mother's Day for the Lithuanian community living in Ballybay. I would like to publicly thank Patricia McCabe of the Sodabarrel for going that extra step yesterday. I am stuck in Dublin , Romule , my partner is in Ballybay and her daughter Aiste is in Lithuania , Aiste wanted to give her mum a gift for Mother's Day so I phoned Particia who personally delivered 2 window boxes to Wylies Hill . Thank You Patricia , we shall always be grateful to you”.
Another person wrote, “Our Family would like to say a massive THANK YOU to Michelle Smith and who all sent the fantastic food parcel for our family. We are very grateful. Ballybay and its people. You are in our prayers”.

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

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

Ballybay Public Realm & Economic Plan >>

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Community Enhancement Programme Application Form 2019 - Word Doc.

Community Enhancement Programme Application Guidelines 2019 - Word Doc.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2019 Town and Village Expression of Interest form - Word Doc

2019 Town and Village Scheme Outline PDF

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tullycorbet CCÉ will be hosting the County Fleadh in Monaghan again this year. Tullycorbet CCÉ have an excellent line-up of events planned launching Thursday 31st May in Tullycorbet Community Centre, with special guest Minister Heather Humphreys. Friday will see a Heritage Trail in Ballybay, followed by the Fleadh launch session. The competitions will be of main focus on Saturday, with sessions taking place throughout the day in various venues. There will also be a special Fleadh Mass which will take place on Sunday morning in St Patricks, followed by Set and Sean-Nos Dancing competitions in Tullycorbet Community Centre, a parade in Ballybay, youth session and open air music.

On Sunday 10th June Fr. Noel Conlon will be hosting his annual sponsored 7km walk/run in Inniskeen. This year’s proceeds will be donated to Merchant’s Quay Ireland and the Ballybay Cancer Society. Registration on the day will commence at 1pm at the Community Centre and the walk/run will start at 2pm. There will be light refreshments served afterwards. Sponsorship cards available from Fr. Noel at 042 9378678.

As expected the Ballybay Green Team had a good win over Derryvalley and are now in to spot with 18 points. Their next game is on Friday 1st June when they take on Clontibret – that will be a game worth seeing. Also on Friday evening we will have Ballybay White play St. Michaels, Cootehill – this could also prove to be a very interesting game.

This week will see the Ballybay selection travel to Letterkenny to play the game that was cancelled earlier in the month – a share of the points would be a good result at that venue.

The outdoor green hosted St. Pat’s indoor club on Monday last when 14 of their players turned up at 10-30am and bowled until 1pm in glorious sunshine On Saturday the 9th June the Gibson Trophy will be played for so now is the time to put your name on the timesheet in the club pavilion. Also on the notice board is the dates and times of the champion of champions competitions.

Local parishioners may want to note the following dates in their summer diaries. Blessing of the graves will take place on Sunday 29th July. In Tullycorbett it will be after 9-30am mass, in Ballintra after 11am mass and in Ballybay at 3pm. Another date worth noting is Sunday 19th August. On tis date the annual Mass at Carga Rock will be held. This will take place in lieu of the Sunday mass in Tullycorbett.

Everyone is welcome to the Faith Mission monthly Gospel meeting on Friday 1st June @ 8pm in Rockcorry Presbyterian Church Hall. Refreshments afterwards. Plan to come and bring a friend. Visiting Faith Mission speakers and workers are Robert Little and Scott McFarland.

The Oriel Sailing Club will also be sailing on Lough Major on Sunday. More details on Oriel Sailing Club Facebook page.

The Oriel Sailing Club will present a traditional and classical concert at Christ Church, Ballybay on Sunday 3rd June. The event which starts at 7-30pm is being run as part of the Monaghan County Fleadh and has received some financial support from Monaghan County Council Community Grant Scheme. Those musicians performing are Oscar Montague (Classical Guitar), Sinead Finnegan (Traditional Flute) and John Wynne (Flute).

The Ballybay Pearse Brothers will host their annual Breakfast Morning at their clubhouse on Sunday 10th of June. This has been rescheduled from the original date of May 20th.

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Best wishes and congratulations to local film maker Colin Parker whose documentary entitled Beal Atha Beithe “The Market Town” premieres on Friday 25th May in Liam Smyth’s at 8pm. This documentary involves local people and local places and should be of interest to all locals. Everyone is welcome – get there early to ensure a front row seat.

Don’t forget that voting in the referendum takes place on Friday 25th May. Polling stations open at 7am and will remain open until 10pm. Voters should bring a form of identification with them.

Congratulations to local lady Pam Coyle who married Seamus Mullen (Scotstown) in Ballybay last Saturday. All your friends in Ballybay would like to wish the newly married couple a very long happy and healthy life together.

Owing to the good weather for the past few weeks a lot of games were played on the outdoor bowling green. The leading team in the local league is Ballybay Green who have maximum points. The members are Noel Campbell, PJ Martin, Angela Mc Caughey, Greg Marron, Stephan Mc Cann and Skip Rose Hughes. Their latest outing on Monday night seen them defeat Derryvalley to go top of the league.

The cross-border team are back in action this week when they play Enniskillen at home which should result in maximum points for Ballybay. On Wednesday 30th May we will play Letterkenny in Donegal – this is a cancelled game owing to heavy rain at the start of the month.

This week will see the start of the town tournament when the business of the town get three persons and the club will supply one experienced bowler for the knockout game. Last year’s winner was Patricia Mc Cabe of Soda Barrell who defeated Murnane’s in the final.

On Saturday the 9th June the Gibson Trophy will be played for so now is the time to put your name on the timesheet in the club pavilion. Also on the notice board is the dates and times of the champion of champions competitions.

First Holy Communion will be celebrated in the parish on Saturday next in St. Patrick’s at 11am. As a result of the First Holy Communion there will be no 10am mass on Saturday. Good luck to all the children.

Tanagh Outdoor Education & Training Centre are now taking bookings for their Outdoor Adventure Summer Camps, Summer Forest Schools, Adults Learn to Kayak sessions & Heritage canoe paddle. Contact Philomena on 049 5552988 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more details on dates & cost. Book early to avoid disappointment.

Also taking names for those interested in the Outdoor Activity Instructor Traineeship 2018-2019 contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. This course will be starting September 2018.

Local artist and designer Catherine Mc Gregor is hosting an open day on Saturday 2nd June from 9am until 5pm. The open day will be an opportunity for anyone wishing to get a taste of arts and craft parties and summer workshops. All of these are suitable for kids, teenagers and adults. Further information is available from Catherine at 087 9353182 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Massive congratulations and Birthday wishes are due to local lady Mary Mc Guinness. Recently Mary celebrated her 90th Birthday in the company of family and friends. Mary who resided for many years with her husband John in Loch Mor Avenue currently lives with her daughter Brid and son in law John Rutledge. Many Happy Returns Mary.

The 2nd annual Ballybay Cancer 80's and 90's Nite will take place in Pat O'Brien's Bar in Ballybay on July 28th, the weekend of the Blessing of the Graves. This proved to be a brilliant night last year so put the date in your diaries and come along and enjoy some great music while helping a great charity. DJ Joe Sullivan never disappoints.

Tullycorbet CCÉ will be hosting the County Fleadh for Monaghan again this year. Tullycorbet CCÉ have an excellent line-up of events planned launching from Thursday 31st May in Tullycorbet Community Centre, with special guest Minister Heather Humphreys. Friday will see a Heritage Trail in Ballybay, followed by the Fleadh launch session. The competitions will be of main focus on Saturday, with sessions taking place throughout the day in various venues. There will also be a special Fleadh Mass which will take place on Sunday morning in St Patricks, followed by Set and Sean-Nos Dancing competitions in Tullycorbet Community Centre, a parade in Ballybay, youth session and open air music.

Monaghan Co. Council wish to advise that due to the Road Lining Works in Ballybay being completed ahead of schedule, the Car Park at the rear of the Soda Barrel will not be closed tomorrow morning Friday, 18th May.

Expressions of Interest are being sought for Town and Village Renewal Scheme 2018.

The Town and Village Renewal Scheme 2018 provides for up to €15 million Nationally in project funding for rural towns and villages for delivery in 2018 and 2019.
Successful proposals will demonstrate close collaboration between communities and business interests in the design and delivery of proposed projects and must have the support of the Local Authority.

An outline of the 2018 scheme and the Expression of Interest application form can be downloaded below:

2018 Town & Village Scheme Outline

2018 Town & Village Scheme – Expression of Interest form

All interested Town/Village Groups/Community Groups/Development Associations should complete the Expression of Interest form and return to the Community Development Section, Monaghan County Council, County Offices, The Glen, Monaghan, Co. Monaghan H18 YT50 or email completed Expression Of Interest to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. no later than 4pm on Friday, 1st June, 2018.

Monaghan Co. Council wish to advise the public that half of the car park at the rear of the Soda Barrel in Ballybay will be closed in the mornings of Thursday 17th and Friday the 18th May to facilitate the refreshing of road markings in the car park. The work is being carried out in phases to reduce disturbance to the public.

Refresher CPR and Defibrillator training will take place in Tullycorbett Community Centre on Monday 28th May from 7 - 9pm for all those in the Tullycorbett and Ballybay area who are previously trained. An individual text message will be forwarded to all those previously trained in advance of this date as a reminder. For any queries in relation to training please contact Ms. Sheila Linden for Ballybay area on 0868319459 and Ms. Una Tomany for the Tullycorbett area on 0867963890.

Anyone interested in athletics please contact Sharon 042 9748110 or Maire 042 9748955 to register.

The parishioners of Christ Church Aughnamullen are holding a Coffee Morning and Cake Sale along with a Car Boot Sale on Saturday 26th may from 10-30am until 1pm at the School House Aughnamullen. This is a fund-raising event for extensive repairs to the church and your support will be greatly appreciated. Everyone is welcome to come along and enjoy the event.

On Monday 7th May the Ballybay Outdoor Bowling Club hosted a charity event for Kiara Mc Kenna. There was a full turn out and we raised €1200 which will go to support Kiara as she travels to Russia for treatment for MS. The winner of the fun competition on the day were Martin Lynch, Terry Clarke, Seamus Mc Eneaney and Gerry Moen. Our Chairman Samuel Gamble made the presentation and thanked all that contributed in any way to the enjoyment of the day.
The local league is now in full swing and its good to see the new clubs doing well. On Monday night Ballybay Green got all 6 points against Ardaghey while Ballybay Maroon beating Latton 4-2.
Our last game in the Border Counties league had to be called off owing to weather conditions in Letterkenny, Co. Donegal. This is now scheduled for Wednesday 30th May at 7pm. The Mc Gurk Shield is being played for at the moment but we got a bye and are into the semi final stage which will be played on the week commencing 25th June.

Last weekend 28 German visitors from the province of Bavaria spent some time in Ballybay. During their short trip a number of them availed of a local history tour courtesy of Rory Mc Atavie. Our pictures taken by John Rutledge show the group along with those who attended the history tour and those who enjoyed refreshments afterwards in the Hilltop Cafe.

Confirmation will be celebrated on Saturday next in St. Patrick’s at 11am. Canon Shane Mc Caughey from Aughnamullen East will be the main celebrant. As a result of the confirmation there will be no 10am mass on Saturday.

The Irish Blood Transfusion Service will be in Ballybay today. The venue is the Sports Hall at the rear of the Community College and blood can be given between 4-30pm and 8-30pm. New members are very welcome. Further information is available at: www.giveblood.ie

Keep free Sunday the 20th of May for the Annual Ballybay GAA Club Breakfast Morning. Get the fuel on board for the trip to Omagh on Sunday evening.

Ballybay Social meets again on Friday 11 May at Cuan Mhuire from 11.30am onwards. It`s for anyone who would like a chat and a bit of fun with local people plus lunch and different activities to participate in if one wishes. If you`ve never come along before you are very welcome, you can bring along a family member too. Please come especially if you`re a man! All in cost is €6. Any queries, call 086 8818531.

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.

Local parishioners may want to note the following dates in their summer diaries. Blessing of the graves will take place on Sunday 29th July. In Tullycorbett it will be after 9-30am mass, in Ballintra after 11am mass and in Ballybay at 3pm. Another date worth noting is Sunday 19th August. On this date the annual Mass at Carga Rock will be held. This will take place in lieu of the Sunday mass in Tullycorbett.

The Holy Family School would like to thank everyone who contributed to their recent church gate collection. The total amount raised was an amazing €741-55. This can be broken down further as Tullycorbett €148.60, Ballintra €165.15 and Ballybay €327.80. The community's generosity is much appreciated by The Holy Family School.

The Under 12 Outdoor Soccer Team have played their final match and we will give you the result of it next week. Team - Eoin Brady, Eanna Curran, Adam Dixon, Simon Du Plessis, Stephen Duffy, Jerome Lavelle, 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. Anyone interested in ATHLETICS please contact Sharon 042 9748110 or Maire 042 9748955 to register.

Tullycorbett Hall will be the venue for a Coffee Morning on Sunday 20th May. The event will take place after 9-30am mass.

The Minister for Rural and Community Development, Michael Ring TD, and the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Michael Creed TD, today launched the ‘LEADER Food Initiative’ a €15 million fund for the artisan/small food and beverage businesses.

The Initiative will provide financial supports, including for the renovation and extension of production facilities and the purchasing of processing equipment, as well as supporting participants in the artisan food and beverage sector in areas such as market development, competitiveness, and innovation.

The maximum amount of funding available is €200,000 per project and funding will be provided for both capital investment and softer supports related to analysis and development or training. This includes support for collaborative proposals where food businesses jointly address common processing and marketing challenges.

The initial tranche of €5 million will be allocated in 2018. Based on the experience in delivering the initial tranche of funding, it is anticipated that the remaining €10 million of this LEADER Food Initiative funding will be rolled out by 2020.

Members of the public, community groups, other interested groups and organisations are invited to attend one of our Heritage Tea Talks, where you can give your ideas and opinions for the next five-year County Monaghan Heritage and Biodiversity Plan. 

See Public Consultation Times and Locations here >>

The Church Gate Collection that took place last weekend raised a fantastic total of €933.38c! Thank you all so much for donating to this appeal for the people suffering the ongoing war in Syria. UNICEF Ireland have extended their gratitude to you also. A big thank you to everyone who helped with the collection and again to you who donated so generously! God bless!

Una McGinnity, Leah McCabe, Bernard McGinnity, Daniel McGuigan and Colette McGuigan with the cheque to be forwarded to the Syrian Appeal fund.

Last weekend 28 German visitors from the province of Bavaria spent some time in Ballybay. During their short trip a number of them availed of a local history tour courtesy of Rory Mc Atavie. Our pictures taken by John Rutledge show the group along with those who attended the history tour and those who enjoyed refreshments afterwards in the Hilltop Cafe.

The annual Pearse Brothers presentation night took place in the clubhouse last Saturday night and it proved to be a very successful and enjoyable night for all in attendance. On the night the championship winning team of 1957 were remembered. 3 local legends namely Paddy ward, Paddy Kerr and Martin O Kane were inducted into the Hall of Fame. Paddy Ward who was absent due to illness is now a hall of fame indcuctee of both the Ballybay and Latton clubs. We all wish Paddy a speedy recovery. In his absence his son Rory collected his award. Paul Finlay was named 2017 senior player of the year while Aaron Toner picked up the Paddy Rutledge cup for the reserve player of the year. The Texas Wildcats entertained for the evening.

Everyone is welcome to the Faith Mission monthly Gospel meeting on Friday 4th May at 8pm in Rockcorry Presbyterian Church Hall. Refreshments will be served afterwards. Plan to come and bring a friend. Speaker is Andrew McCullough.

The Ballybay Outdoor Bowling Club had a very good win last week when they had a home game versus Dungannon. This gave the Ballybay team the perfect start in getting the 10 points. This week will see us away to Letterkenny which is on a grass surface and is a lot harder for us to compete on. Despite this we are still confident of a share of the points.
The local league started on Monday evening last with Ballybay whites beating Ballybay Maroon 4 to 2. In the other game Derryvalley had a 10 nil win over Ardaghey. On Friday 4th May we will have Latton play Corcaghan and Ballybay Green play Ballybay Golf Society who are new to the competition so this should be interesting.
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 next senior citizens social day at Cuan Mhuire takes place on Friday 11th May from 11am until 2pm. There will be the usual entertainment and everyone is welcome.

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, 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. They had their first match on Monday last in Clones and gave a gallant display of their skills. Well done boys.

In an effort to seek answers on flood prevention works in the Ballybay area Semator Robbie Gallagher sought a written answer on behalf of Councillor Seamus Coyle in the Seanad last week. Senator Gallagher asked Deputy Kevin Moran T.D. the Minsister for State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform "If flood alleviation funding will be made available for flood prevention works in Ballybay, County Monaghan; when work will commence; if planning has been commenced, completed or approved for the works; when the works will be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter".

Minister Moran in a written reply said, "The core strategy for addressing areas at potentially significant risk from flooding is the Office of Public Works (OPW) Catchment Flood Risk Assessment and Management (CFRAM) Programme. The Programme, undertaken by engineering consultants on behalf of the OPW working in partnership with the local authorities, has involved the production of predictive flood mapping for each location, the development of preliminary flood risk management options and the production of Flood Risk Management Plans.

The CFRAM Programme focussed on 300 Areas for Further Assessment (AFAs) including 90 coastal areas, mainly in urban locations nationwide, designated in 2012 as being at potentially significant risk of flooding. The flood risk for each of these areas has been assessed, through detailed engineering techniques to assess their risk and impact from flooding. This risk and the proposed feasible measures, both structural and non-structural, identified to manage that risk are outlined in the Flood Risk Management Plans.

Ballybay was studied as part of the North Western – Neagh Bann CFRAM Programme. The proposed measure for Ballybay consists of a series of flood embankments and walls. These hard defences will extend for a total length of 2.5km with an average height of 1.6m.

In summer 2017, the OPW finalised all Plans and each Plan was submitted to the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform for an independent review of the environmental assessments and in last month, the Commissioners of Public Works have submitted the Flood Risk Management Plans to the Minister for Finance and Public Expenditure and Reform for approval.

The National Development Plan 2018-2027 commits to almost €1 billion in funding for flood relief schemes, with annual Capital funding for the OPW doubling to €100m by 2021. This funding will support continued investment in schemes at construction and design. Once the Plans are approved, I intend to announce a prioritised initial tranche of schemes proposed by the Plans to progress to detailed project level assessment and that provide greatest return for Government investment".

Senator Gallagher and Councillor Coyle have vowed to keep the pressure on the Department to ensure that the work promised will be completed as soon as possible.

Communities across Monaghan planning 7 Street Feast celebrations so far including in Glaslough, Newbliss, Emyvale and Clones

3 weeks until Street Feast 2017 National Day of Street Parties and Community Celebrations

Over 1000 Street Feast Parties registered to date with 7 parties planned for Monaghan so far!

To register and receive your Free Party Pack* for Sunday, 11th June 2017 log onto www.streetfeast.ie

Last Saturday's Spring Clean was a major success with the Tidy Towns Committee along with a number of volunteers collecting a full skip of litter and waste from the town and the approach roads leading to the town. Speaking to our website the Tidy Town Chairman Martin Gleeson said, "We had a great day last Saturday and all the volunteers can be very proud of their efforts. I would like to thank the hard working Tidy Towns Committee and the volunteers for a job well done. We had lots of fun and it turned out to be a great social ocassion as well as a good days work. I would also like to thank Monaghan County Council for supplying the litter pickers, high visibility vests, plastic bags and disposal gloves".

Secret preparations have been underway recently to mark the special and significant birthday of a local lady-whose picture appears in this week’s edition of the Northern Standard-possibly in the classified section (look for an angel).
There is still some confusion as to what age this lady is-indeed rumour has it that she is not sure herself-despite taking her tablets! Anyone with any information regarding her age is asked to contact the Ballybay News or indeed any family member so that her cake will have the right number on it!
We wish this special lady a very Happy Birthday and hope that despite the passage of time she will be able to celebrate in style

London College of Music Exams will be taking place on Saturday May 27th. Pupils sitting the exams will be contacted as regards their time. Preparations for the Fleadh are well underway, make sure to like Tullycorbet CCÉ on Facebook to keep up to date.

There was a full turn out of members at the Ballybay indoor Bowls AGM held in the Bowling Pavilion on Thursday evening last. The Chairperson Angela Rutledge gave a comprehensive report of the events of the past year. She also thanked the various people that helped her in the smooth running of the club especially the Secretary Cora and Treasurer Rose. Both gave their reports and the financial report showed that we are in a healthy state for another year. Our table quiz that we held during the year was a big help as the membership was down this year and every effort should be made to get some new members for the coming year.
There is not a lot of change in personnel at the top table with Angela being elected in the chair for another year and Cora and Rose holding on to their positions. The position of PRO was discussed at length and it was felt that it was time for a replacement of the present scribe so Mr. Quiz Book Stephen Duffy will be keeping you informed of all the happenings at the club for the coming year.
It was agreed that we return to the same venue for the coming season which will start on the second Monday in September. The meeting concluded with Angela wishing JJ Duffy well as he is currently in hospital.

On Sunday last five St. Brigids players namely Megan Miller, Angie Mc Guirk, Jayne Drury, Michaela Linden and Megan Reilly were memebrs of the Monaghan U16 team which beat Tyrone in the Ulster U16 B final. The girls are pictured with County mentor and St. Brigids stalwart Angela Rutledge. Missing from the picture is John Smith who is a selector with the team. Monaghan beat Tyrone 8-14 to 3-11 and will now play in an All Ireland semi final.

Congratulations to Isaiah Dixon, Adam Steele, Tyana Pratt-Clarke, Joshua Dixon, Blake Lees and Jaeden Lees from Christ Church Ballybay who were confirmed in St Maeldoid's church in Castleblaney  on Sunday the 14th May 2017 last at 3:30pm. Also pictured are the Rt.Rev John Mc Dowell and Rev Neal Phair.

London College of Music Exams will be taking place on Saturday May 27th. Pupils sitting the exams will be contacted as regards their time. Preparations for the Fleadh are well underway, make sure to like Tullycorbet CCÉ on Facebook to keep up to date. Well done to ‘Céim le Chéile’, who performed so well at the TG4 recording of ‘An Ríl Deal’. The children and their families had a great day at the RTÉ studios. Congrats to Angela and Pauline for making this opportunity possible. Congrats also to Tomasina and Aoife who also performed so well in the Monday recording. The episodes will be shown later in the year.

The local league is progressing very well and all teams are putting in a big effort to have the games played on the allocated evenings. Also a lot of teams are turning up for their practices. St. Michaels of Cootehill is the team in form at the moment and is the leader in points so far.
Just a reminder that the Jimmy Gibson memorial trophy is to be played on Saturday 10th June so now is the time to put your name on the time sheet in the pavilion.
At our weekly meeting on Monday evening best wishes were extended to one of our long serving members JJ Duffy who has been in hospital for the last week.
Our next Border Counties League match is on May 24th away to Enniskillen which has one of the best grass greens that we visit so we are hoping for a few points there.

Recitation - Good luck to Nial Grogan and Sinead Duffy who are taking part in The County Community Games Finals in Inver College, Carrickmacross at 7pm on Friday evening. Niall won a Bronze medal at The National Community Games Finals in 2016.
Gaelic Football - Good Luck to our Under 10 Mixed Gaelic Football team managed by Peter Ward who are presently playing matches against different teams.
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.
Athletics and Cycling - Anyone interested in Athletics or Cycling please contact Sharon 9748110 or Maire 9748955 on or before Wed 24th May as we will not be having a local area competition.

Latton O'Rahilly G.A.A. Club continue with the celebration of their Centenary 1916-2017 with the "LATTON CENTENARY CARNIVAL" taking place from Friday 26th May to Sunday 28th May. A huge range of events have been organized. On the Friday night "Mr.Centenary" will be selected in the Club House. Ten footballing greats from various clubs within the county will fight it out for the €500 prize money. On Saturday 27th May the Club host Jim Devine (voted Irelands Best Live Band 2016. Doors open at 8pm and tickets are available from all club members. There will be prizes galore on the night including Best Jiving Couple, Best Dressed Cowboy and Best Dressed Cowgirl. On Sunday there will be mass at 10am and afterwards there will be a number of wreath laying ceremonies.
The Emily Coyle and Jack Conlan Memorial Perpetual Tournament Finals take place at the O'Rahilly GAA Pitchs at 2pm on Sunday 28th May. At 7.30pm on the evening of Sunday 28th May "The Centenary Stone" will be unveiled by Ruth Sweatman, a granddaughter of The O'Rahilly, National and Club Patriot. There will also be a Tree Planting to be performed by Uachtaran, C.L.G.,Aoghan O'Fearghaill. Later that evening The O'Rahilly GAA Centre will host "Brendan McCourt Live" from 8pm, with the presentation of "Centenary Player/Service Certificates" to those who played with the Club in the historic decades of the 1980s and 1990s, all who played or were associated with the club during the 1980s and 1990s are invited to attend for presentation Service Award.

Monaghan LEADER has announced details of the latest ‘time-limited call’ to assist individuals/groups to prepare conservation plans for protected structures and devise plans for their use as a tourism facility. 

This ‘time-limited call’ is designed to encourage owners of protected structures to consider the conservation of their buildings as a tourism product/service. The call for built heritage funding is open to accept completed ‘expression of interest’ forms from 8th May 2017 until the call closes on 16th June 2017. This opportunity is open to all private individuals or groups with property in County Monaghan and further information about this call is available from this link: www.midl.ie/index.php/leader/built-heritage-call

Interested parties should contact Monaghan LEADER with a view to organising an appointment to discuss this funding opportunity and review future potential capital funding for your project. If you are interested, please contact the LEADER development staff at the Monaghan Integrated Development office on 042-9749500 (select option 7) or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Oriel Sailing Club presents a free concert by local traditional musicians as part of the Monaghan Fleadh Christ Church in Ballybay, Co. Monaghan Sunday 4th of June 7.30pm to 10 pm

Programme of Events
7.30: Heather Humphries officially opens the concert
7.40 – 8.15: Nellie Fisher will give a short talk on the life and times of William Clarke, the local Ballybay traditional uilleann piper
8.15 -10.00: Francis McMahon will introduce the musicians
Booking essential: To book please contact the MS Ireland Northeast Regional Office on 042 9754304
All donations from the concert go to MS Ireland Monaghan Voluntary Branch/Christ Church

A great achievement was celebrated last week for two local secondary school music teachers who reached the final of the annual Walton’s Music for Schools Competition 2017 held in the National Concert Hall, Dublin. The director of the Royal Irish Academy of Music, Deborah Keliher and the infamous composer and music guru, Bill Whelan, judged this years extraordinary final concert in the NCH. The coveted title in this prestigious competition went to Micheal Kerr of Edenane, Ballybay with his performing arts group from Scoil Mhuire in Trim, Co. Meath with a piece entitled ‘Music makes us strong’. The runners up in the completion were Coláiste Chill Mhantain from Co. Wicklow under the tuition of Claire McAdam from Drumar, Ballybay with her Music Ensemble ‘Love grows with each Piece’.
The open nature of the competition, now in its sixth year, offers schools the opportunity to think and work creatively with students, developing a creative and original musical project. Furthermore, the Competition awarded a total of €10,000 worth of vouchers for musical instruments, accessories, books, music technology or PA equipment from Waltons Music, to be divided among six winning primary and post-primary schools. Both Monaghan natives managed to scoop the two top prizes in the post-primary category for their individual schools in vouchers to the sum of €3,000 and €1,500. This was a remarkable achievement for these two local teachers who both attended Ballybay N.S. and Our Lady’s Secondary School Castleblayney were their musical journey was fostered and nurtured.

Ballybay Tidy Towns is 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.

Tullycorbet CCE will host this year’s Monaghan County Fleadh in Ballybay on the June Bank Holiday weekend (1st to 4th June). Most of the competitions will be held at the Recreation Centre, Tullycorbet Community Centre and Community College however you can be guaranteed that there will be lots of trad music and craic throughout the town. Spread the word and keep the weekend free. Minister Heather Humpries will launch the event in Tullycorbet Community Centre on Thursday 1st June. As well as the music there will be a heritage trail, a pipe band parade and a lecture on the famous Ballybay Piper William Clarke. Watch this space for lots more details over the coming weeks.

Christ Church Aughnamullen is holding a coffee morning and cake sale in Aughnamullen School House on Saturday 20th May from 10-30am until 1pm. Proceeds are in aid of the church repair funds. There will be quiz sheets available at the event. All are welcome.

The AGM of the Ballybay Indoor Bowling club will take place on Thursday 18th May at 9pm in the Outdoor Pavilion, Town Park, Ballybay. The Chairperson Angela Rutledge would like all members to attend as there is some pressing matters to attend to.

Christ Church Ballybay is holding a gardening evening “Grow Your Own” in aid of the Church restoration fund, with guest speaker Jenny Blackburn from Green Fingers, Monaghan. It will be held on Friday 19th May 2017 at 8pm in the Church Hall. Everyone welcome for a great evening of gardening tips, spot prizes, plant stall and a buffet supper served. Admission €10.

The Annual General Meeting of the Ballybay/Clones Fianna Fail Comhairle Ceanntair will take place in the Creighton Hotel, Clones TOMORROW NIGHT, Friday 12th May at 8.30pm Sharp. All Fianna Fail Party members and supporters are urged to attend, as the party reviews the past year and plans for the year ahead in the Ballybay/Clones L.E.A. and nationally. All issues will be discussed, with local Oireachtas Members, Brendan Smyth T.D. Niamh Smith T.D. , Senators Robbie Gallagher and Diarmuid Wilson and Ballybay/Clones County Councillor, Seamus Coyle will be in attendance.

The 2017 National Fianna Fail Collection will take place across the Ballybay/Clones L.E.A. on the weekend of Saturday/Sunday 20th/21st May.

The fine summer weather has brought out the bowlers to the outdoor green in the Town Park, Ballybay. The local league is now well underway with Muckno the early leaders. Last year’s winner Ballybay White had a 5 to 1 win over Ballybay Maroon. There is a few very interesting games to be played this week when we have Clontibret saffron take on Derryvalley and St. Michael’s Cootehill playing Shercock who I must say are putting in the hours of practice. The Ballybay club had two teams competing in the Enniskillen fun day on Saturday last the 6th May and the team of Uel Gamble, George Berry, Seamus Smyth and skip Seamus Winters were runners up to Letterkenny team. The Ballybay team played very well and where holding shot until the last bowl. Our other team had to be content with getting sunburned!! The Town Tournament is progressing slowly but this week should see a lot of games played.
A date for your diary will be Saturday 10th June when the Jimmy Gibson Perpetual Trophy will be played for. Now is the time to put your name down on the time sheet on the clubs notice board as its limited to the first 24 names.

The Waters and Communities Office are hosting public meetings within the coming weeks to discuss the natural waters of county Monaghan. If you are interested in water quality, angling, heritage, biodiversity, amenity use or issues affecting your local waterways then this is an opportunity to share your views.

We will present information on the latest draft River Basin Management Plan for Ireland 2018 - 2021 along with details on how you can input into the final plan. The Waters & Communities office aims to get local communities more involved in valuing and protecting our local waters and these meetings provide an opportunity to have your say.

Gretta McCarron, Community Water Officer for Monaghan will present this information and facilitate a discussion on the issues raised. There will be refreshments after the meeting and opportunities to network. The times, dates and venues of the meetings are set out below. For further information contact Gretta on 085 808 5756 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Visit www.watersandcommunities.ie and like us on Facebook.

YWCA, North Road Monaghan, Tuesday 25th April 7.30 – 8.30 pm

Ulster Canal Stores, Clones, Wednesday 3rd May 7.30 – 8.30 pm

The Workhouse, Carrickmacross, Tuesday 9th May 7.30 – 8.30 pm

The Ballybay/Clones Fianna Fail Comhairle Ceanntair AGM will take place in Liam Smyths Bar,Ballybay on Tomorrow night(Friday 20th May) at 8.30pm sharp. All party members and their families are invited to attend. Local public representatives will attend, including Brendan Smith TD, Niamh Smith TD, Senator Robbie Gallagher, Senator Duirmeid Wilson and Cllr.Seamus Coyle. Issues of local and national importance will be discussed.

Ballybay Pearse Brothers will host a Golf Classic this Saturday 21st May at Clones Golf Club. A team of 4 will cost €140. The presentations and entertainment will take place afterwards in the Pearse Brothers Club House. Further information is available from either Barry 0861691464 or Niall at 0858082607. The golf classic is being sponsored by KEPAK.

The organizers of the recent church gate collection in aid of Epilepsy would like to thank everyone who either helped at the collection or donated. The amount raised was €761.

Did you know that you can access WIFI at Ballybay library for FREE during library opening hours? You just need to be a member of the library, which is a very simple process and is FREE too.
Ballybay Library is open Monday & Thursday 5-8pm and Tuesday & Wednesday 11am-1pm and 2pm-5pm. If you need further information contact Rosemary at 0429741256 or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Youth Work Ireland Monaghan Branch is hosting SUSI Clinics across the county to help students with their third level grant applications. Help will be available with form filling. In Ballybay students can avail of this service at the Library on 26th May (5 to 7pm), 16th and 26th June (5pm to 7pm) and 7th July (5pm to 7pm).

Do you want to get fit for summer? Why not join The Wetlands Running Club new “Walk to Run Group” started in Ballybay Town Park at 7.00pm on Monday last. All levels catered for from beginner to more advanced runners. If you require any further information contact Marie on 087 9414040.

The Border Counties bowling team had a comprehensive win over an Omagh bowling team last week when they played at home in the Mc Guirk Memorial Shield. They had a score of 78 shots to 40, so they carry forward 38 shots to the return match which is to be played on the Omagh green on Tuesday next the 31st May.
The local bowling league is progressing well now and there is some very interesting pairings in the next few weeks. Latton had a close win over Clontibret (4 points to 2) on Friday evening. Also in the winning enclosure was Ballybay White team which overcame stiff opposition from Keady. On Saturday 21st May we have the Jimmy Gibson Memorial Trophy on offer. Play will start at 11am so we would like all players to be there is good time for the draw and all games will be played to a finished on the day.

Autism Ireland would like to thank those who donated and helped at their recent church gate collection. The amount raised was €292.

Cavan Monaghan ETB will be in Ballybay Library on Thursday 19th May 10am-4pm to demonstrate the various classes and courses available to adults.
Classes Available in: IPads/Tablets, Health & Safety Awareness, Drama, Arts & Crafts, Basic Computers, Digital Media, Maths, Parent & Child Summer Courses Interested in classes? Unsure about what you want to do? Call in and speak with a member of staff. Adult Guidance will be available between 10am-12pm on the day. Refreshments will be provided. For more information contact: Michael Donohoe, Adult Literacy Organiser 087 - 6526648 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

A full weeks practice in the Algarve paid off for Richard Parker as he picked up this year's free sub in the sun drenched Slieve Russell. The other winners on the day were. Cat1 1st Kenny Farrelly 2nd Francie Boylan. Cat2 1st Kieran O'Reilly 2nd Peader Lynch. Cat3 1st Niall Duffy 2nd Michael Keenan. Front nine Denis Parker, back nine Barry Duffy. Nearest the pin Gaby Kerr and Francie Boylan. 2s John Conlon and Ann McCarthy. Once again the society would like to thank Liam and Anna Smyth for sponsoring the outing. Our next outing takes place on the11th of June in the Nuremore.

On Monday 25th April 2016, there was a welcome reception held in Ballybay Wetlands Centre for 22 Students and 4 teachers who arrived earlier that day from Osterhofen in Germany. The visitors were in Ireland for 4 days and had arranged day trips to Belfast and Dublin. Cllr Ciara McPhillips welcomed the students to Ballybay and said that she hoped that they enjoy their stay in Ireland. Cllr Ciara McPhillips referred to her trip to Osterhofen in 2015 and stated that the hospitality was amazing and hopes that the Students and teachers are made to feel welcome and enjoy the Irish Hospitality.

Food was provided by George Wallace and music/dancing and singing courtesy of Tullycorbet Comhaltas Group. Ms Antoinette Byrne, teacher from Ballybay Community College attended the event along with pupils Aoibheann Byrne and Cynthia Plummer. Cllr Sean Gilliland, officials from Ballybay-Clones Municipal Office, members of Ballybay Chamber of commerce and Ballybay Town Twinning Committee also attended the event.

Two German Students spoke about their School and life in Osterhofen/Gerweiss	German Student learning traditional Irish Brush Dance.

Wednesday 27th April 2016 the students visited Ballybay Community College and met with teachers and pupils from the School. On Wednesday afternoon the students and teachers from Osterhofen visited Lough Mourne Shooting Grounds and had a great afternoon pistol shooting and clay pigeon shooting, Cllr Sean Gilliland was in attendance along with representatives from Ballybay-Clones Municipal Office and Martin McAviney from the Town Twinning Committee. 

	First, Second and Third in the Clay Pigeon Shooting.

Do you have any news that you would like considered for the Ballybay news page. If so you can contact Paul at either This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 0861703640.

A memorial service for the late William Buchanan will be held in 2nd Ballybay Presbyterian Church in Hall Street on Sunday 15th May at 3-30pm.

The sympathy and thoughts of the community are with the local Presbyterian congregation on the death of Re. Buchanan which took place recently.

The Ballybay outdoor bowling club had a very good start to the Border Counties bowling league on Tuesday last when they beat Letterkenny by a comfortable margin. Our next game in on this week when we have Drumragh at home so hopefully there will be a similar outcome with them. Drumragh is one of the Omagh teams after they joined forces with Sion Mills when they closed down.

On Wednesday 10th May we will have a cup game with Strule, the other Omagh team so another big effort is required to get us into the next round of that competition.

This Saturday the 7th May will see us at home for the playing of the Vincent Cup. This is always played at the start of the season between Ballybay and Fivemiletown. All our members are expected to be at the club pavilion at 12noon on Saturday with play to start at 12-30pm and end at 3-30pm. The meal will follow at 4pm. 

Do you want to get fit for summer? Why not join The Wetlands Running Club new “Walk to Run Group” starting in Ballybay Town Park at 7.00pm on Monday 9th May.

All levels catered for from beginner to more advanced runners.

If you require any further information contact Marie on 087 9414040.

The Happy Heart annual collection takes place this weekend (Friday 6th and Saturday 7th May). If you have an hour or two to spare and would like to help out contact Brendan at 0876766283.

People from Ballybay and surrounding areas who use the Citizens Information Office in Castleblayney should note that this office has moved. It is now available on Wednesday mornings between 10am and 12 noon at the Wellbeing Centre, Bree. Alternatively you can get information by telephoning 042 9751979.

The monthly Gospel Meeting in the Faith Mission Hall, Bushford, Rockcorry due to be held on Friday 6th May 2016 @ 8 pm, has been cancelled. Evangelists Ronnie Killops and Robert Little are holding a series of Bible teaching meetings entitled 'Good News for Corcaghan'.

These began on Sunday 1st May at 3.30pm in Corcaghan Community centre and continued on Monday and Tuesday. There will be another meeting tonight and Friday at 8pm. Friday Night Specials are 'Creation Nights' with visiting speaker Noel Johnstone. Do plan to come & bring a friend. All welcome.

Did you know that you can access WIFI at Ballybay library for FREE during library opening hours?
You just need to be a member of the library, which is a very simple process and is FREE too.

Ballybay Library is open Monday & Thursday 5-8pm and Tuesday & Wednesday 11am-1pm and 2pm-5pm.

If you need further information contact Rosemary at 0429741256 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

A Pilgrim Bracelet was found recently in the grounds of St. Patrick’s church.

If you lost it then further information is available from the parish office at 042 9741032. 

Plans for a weekend of Remembrance of the events of Easter 1916 in Ballybay are at an advanced stage. The weekend of May 27th to 29th was set for a number of events including music, talks, and a play as well as a flag raising ceremony and a reading of the proclamation however due to unforeseen circumstances this weekend has now been changed to June 10th, 11th and 12th.

Full details of the events will be in the Ballybay News next week.

It is planned to have a number of events on the Main Street at 16 minutes past 7 o clock (1916 on the 24 hour clock). Clear your diaries for what will be a weekend to remember. 

Ballybay Pearse Brothers will host a Golf Classic on Saturday 21st May at Clones Golf Club. A team of 4 will cost €140. The presentations and entertainment will take place afterwards in the Pearse Brothers Club House.

Further information is available from either Barry 0861691464 or Niall at 0858082607.

The golf classic is being sponsored by KEPAK. 

A new Tidy Towns committee has been recently formed in Ballybay and they have wasted no time in trying to improve how the town looks. They have organized a ‘Spring Clean’ on Saturday 30th April. The committee is now seeking volunteers to give a few hours to help. Anyone who is interested should meet in the Square at 10am. The clean-up will finish at 4pm. Bibs, bags, pickers and gloves will be provided courtesy of Monaghan County Council.

Tullycorbet Drama Group is staging their production of “Widows’ Paradise” for charity on Bank Holiday Monday, 2 May at 8 p.m. The charities to benefit from this fundraising production are Ballybay Mental Health Association and Co Monaghan Alzheimers Society. Both charities are indeed very worthy charities and do great work in the local area and at County level. It is hoped that the fundraising production will be well supported so that much needed funds can be raised for the charities.

The start of the local league will commence on Friday evening 29th April with Corcaghan taking on Cootehill at 7-30pm on the outdoor bowling green. This game is in section one and in section two we have Ardaghey playing Muckno. This will be Ardaghey’s first season in this competition and we hope they enjoy the experience.

The first of the Border Counties League games will take place also on the bowling green when we have Letterkenny visit us. This will be a very hard team to take points off but we will give it our best on the night. Next week we also have a home game when a Omagh team called Drumragh visit us in Ballybay.

On Saturday 9th May we will play Fivemiletown in our annual friendly for the Vincent Cup. We need all members to turn up on that day at 12 noon in order to retain the cup which we have on display in our club rooms. Any league club that wants to practice are encouraged to do so as long as the green is free – ring Benny to check at 087 4152392.

The Ballybay Indoor Bowls Club hosted a very successful Table Quiz on Friday night past in Pat O Briens. There were 13 tables and with Mr. Quiz himself Stephen Duffy as quiz master there was plenty of tough questions on offer along with some timely banter. The Chairperson Angela Rutledge thanked all for attending and also Gabriel Treanor for supplying the trophies and Gerry Mc Elroy for the prizes and refreshments. She also thanked Pat O Brien for all he did to make it a good night. Winners on the night were Ashling Donnelly and family with the Macklin Boys getting runners up. 

Congratulations to Pearse Brothers senior player Ryan Wylie who last week received a ‘Rising Star’ award at a celebration event in Croke Park. Ryan was awarded this following his wonderful year with the club, county and UCD in the Sigerson Cup.