Cuan Mhuire in Ballybay have resumed meetings however they would like to advice that in order to help protect their friends and staff that masks must be worn at meetings. This is in line with Government advice and came into effect from Monday last.
Doohamlet Group Water Scheme along with Monaghan County Council and the HSE have issued a boil water notice for all customers. The boil water notice has been put in place following an issue detected in the distribution system. Doohamlet Group Water Scheme are working to resolve the issue as soon as possible. In the meantime, all customers on this supply are advised to boil water before drinking or using water for food preparation. Water can still be used for other domestic activities such as washing, showering, toilets etc.
The 12-15pm mass from St. Patrick’s will continue to be live streamed as numbers attending have been seriously reduced owing to the covet-19 pandemic. The link to view the mass is: https://www.churchservices.tv/tullycorbet
This week has been a very busy time in the outdoor bowling circles with the hosting of the Jimmy Gibson Memorial Shield.
Tonight Thursday 13th August will be the first round and tomorrow night Friday will see the second round. Saturday all will be played to a final starting at 11am. Those wishing to get an approximate time of when they are due to play, can ring one of the organizing committee.
Next week will see the start of the town tournament. The format will be that businesses in the town supply three persons and the club will supply one experienced player as a team leader. Games will be played in the evenings starting at 7-30pm. Last year we had 14 businesses entered with Liam Smyth’s winning it outright. Massive thanks to Gerry Mc Elroy who sponsored a cup for the competition.
The boys and girls from the parish will receive the sacrament of Confirmation on Saturday 15th and Saturday 22nd August in St. Patrick’s Church at 11am. Please note that there will be no confessions on these dates owing to the confirmations.
Ballybay ICA may not be meeting at the moment but Martina Wright has been keeping their facebook page ticking over. A quick nose on Monday night revealed numerous recipes which have been added recently. These include pavlova, cherry and almond buttermilk scones, bramley apple tray bakes and oatmeal biscuits. Why not try one of these delicious recipes.
Rethink Ireland has established an Equality Fund 2020 - 2023 to tackle inequalities in Irish life.
Applications can be made online up to 14th September 2020 at 5pm
Last week we reported that members of the local community were concerned that there was ongoing works at the Riverdale Hotel were in order to get it ready for use as an accommodation centre and that the community had not been consulted. Councillor Seamus Coyle gave an undertaking to follow this up with Monaghan County Council. Speaking to the Ballybay News on Monday evening Cllr. Coyle said, “The Planning Section of Monaghan County Council have confirmed no Planning Application has been received in relation to renovation or alternative use of the property, formerly known as The Riverdale Hotel”.
Ballybay Community Creche employees Tracy Connolly and Jason Mc Andrew have volunteered to let local businessmen Ross and Jayo loose on their hair on Friday 18th September. Between now and then you can donate and suggest whether their hairs should be shaved or dyed. All proceeds from the event will be donated to the Ballybay Cancer Society and the Ballybay Community Creche. Sponsorship cards are available locally or you can check out the Community Creche page for more details.
Once again Gerry Mc Elroy will be sponsoring the cup and prize (€100) for the best kept business. Judging for the competition will take place during August by an independent judge from another Tidy Town Group. There will be no Tidy Town Thursday meeting/volunteering for next two weeks.
The annual Cul Camp took place at Pearse Park this week and we are happy to report a full house each day. The boys and girls enjoyed 4 days of fun and games under supervised by excellent coaches. Well done to all involved.
There is a few spaces left in the Jimmy Gibson memorial trophy so now is the time to put your name down on the time sheet. These single games will take place on Saturday 15th August with the preliminary games taking place on Friday 14th.
Cllr. Seamus Coyle has continuously raised the problem of the ragweeds/furies, etc on the Cootehill(R162/R190-Powerhouse) approach road to Ballybay town as they are currently overgrown and not an ideal approach to the town. Monaghan County Council have informed the Latton based Councillor that financial assistance towards the cutting/removal of the obnoxious growth has been obtained from Town and Village Renewal Programme, with the County Council Horticulturalists examining proposals to address the problem.
The Monaghan Ladies minor team lost their All Ireland A final to Cork on Monday last. The scoreline certainly did not reflect how close the game was. Monaghan trailed by 3 points ten minutes into the second half when St. Brigid’s Jane Drury was taken down however no penalty was awarded and Cork went up the other end and scored a goal. The seven locals involved Jayne Drury, Michaela Linden, Caoimhe Brennan, Megan Millar (St. Brigid’s), Jane Duffy, Clare Duffy and Emile Culleton (Latton) can all be very proud of the fine year that they have had winning Ulster and reaching the All Ireland A final.
This Saturday 10th August will see the qualifying game of the champion of champions rinks team. This will take place on the bowling green starting at 10-30am and will be played to a finish. Afterwards there will be a presentation of prizes to the singles, pairs and rinks winners. We are very thankful to Gabriel Traynor for sponsoring the prizes for this competition this year. The winner of the singles is Seamus Smyth with Jockey Gibson and Brendan Mc Gahey winning the pairs. They will all go forward to the final in Enniskillen on Saturday 7th September. The final of the local league is due to take place next week with Derryvalley playing Corcaghan for the Jackie Rutledge cup. Tonight (Thursday) will see Corcaghan play St. Michael’s of Cootehill in the outdoor cup quarter final. The Town Tournament got underway during the week with a few qualifying games between Paul Carragher and Darren Smyth and Murnanes taking on last year’s winners the Soda Barrell.
To facilitate priests covering Sunday messes between parishes during the summer holiday time it is necessary to make adjustment to the Sunday Mass schedule on two upcoming Sundays. It will mean the cancellation of the 9-30am Sunday Mass in Tullycorbet on Sunday 25th August and the cancelation of the 11am Sunday Mass in Ballintra on Sunday 8th September.
Gerry Finlay is hosting the annual Kieran Finlay Golf Tournament on 9th September at Wind Watch Golf and country Club, Hauppage, Long Island, New York. Since the annual tournament started the organisers have donated over €15, 000 to Ballybay Pearse Brothers and Ballybay Cancer Society. If you know anyone from the Ballybay area who is living in New York or if you have golfing friends in the Big Apple why not let them know that this tournament is on. As well as the golf there will be a lavish buffet afterwards in the Shandon Court, East Islip, Long Island.
A workshop by Robert Thompson on the identification of damsel and dragonflies will take place in the Wetlands Centre on Thursday 15th August starting at 10am. During this workshop we will look at the features used to identify Ireland’s Dragonfly and Damselfly species, where to find them, and helpful suggestions on identification resources. The morning will consist of a short introduction to the Dragonfly Ireland 2019 – 2024 project, followed by an illustrated talk with particular emphasis on key identification features. In the afternoon we will explore Ballybay Wetlands to practice field skills. This workshop is suitable for beginners and those wishing to refresh their identification skills. The event is being organised by The National Biodiversity Data Centre and Monaghan County Council. If you would like more information on this event check out the County Monaghan Heritage Office facebook page.
A coffee morning in aid of St. Luke’s Hospital Dublin will take place at the home of Clodagh Mc Entee, Knocknamaddy on Saturday 31st August. Tea, coffee and refreshments will be served from 10am until 3pm. Everybody welcome.
Good luck to the local ladies who will be part of the Monaghan minor squad this weekend as they take on Cork in the final. This is the first minor final Monaghan have reached in twenty years. Those involved are Jayne Drury, Michaela Linden, Caoimhe Brennan, Megan Millar (St. Brigid’s), Jane Duffy, Clare Duffy and Emile Culleton (Latton). In the Ulster final they beat Donegal and then Meath in the All Ireland semi-final.
The annual Culture Night will take place on Friday 20th September. Plans for the evening will be available shortly so you may want to keep it free for what should be a lovely evening.
The opening of the Muckno/Ballybay Triathlon club in the park was a huge success and was attended by several hundred people. The committee of the Bowling Club had the green open and we had lots of visitors during the evening so we hope to reap some rewards with some new members. This week sees us play Letterkenny in the Border League of which we are leading by 4 points at the moment.
The Town Tournament is starting this week with Murnanes v Soda Barrell and Darren Smyth’s meeting Paul Carragher. Other games will be arranged in the coming weeks and all games to be played on the bowling green in the Town park.
Tonight Thursday will see the semi final of the local league when St. Michael’s of Cootehill play Derryvalley and Ballybay Maroon take on Corcaghan. These should be two good games and would be well worth a visit.
The annual Cuan Mhuire Novena starts on 7th August and will run until the 15th. More details next week.
All are welcome to come and hear a visiting speaker Colombian Pastor Luis Miguel Hernandez at Corlea Presbyterian Church (Eircode A75 W682) on Sunday 11th August at 4pm when he will speak on his journey, “From Street Child to Pastor”. Our friends Joe and Sadie Law of Mission Possible will give an update on their work with the orphans and abandoned street children of Bogota, Colombia. An offering will be taken up for this worthy cause.
The Ballybay-Clones Fianna Fáil Comhairle Ceanntair wish to very sincerely thank all those who assisted in making the recent Local Elections 2019 Fundraising Draw a great success. The Ticket Sellers, Prize Sponsorers, McCaughey Fuels (Clones), Senator Robbie Gallagher, Cllr. Seamus Coyle, Brendan Smith T.D., Niamh Smyth T.D. and Mike & Martina Durkan. To all who purchased tickets thank you for your generosity. Congratulations to all Prize Winners:
1st Prize-Michael Reilly, Carrickatee.
2nd Prize-Brendan Duffy, Rockcorry.
3rd Prize-Eileen Deery, Tullynahinera.
4th Prize-George McCabe, Drumhowan.
5th Prize-Fiona Keenan O’Brien, Doohamlet.
6th Prize-Anna Smith, Ballybay.
Thank you to all who assisted in making the Comhaile Ceanntair Local Elections 2019 Draw a great success particularly Martina & Mike Durkan who organized the Draw which helped the party campaign greatly in the Ballybay-Clones L.E.A. with the record breaking vote achieved by our candidate, the Cathaorleach of Monaghan County Council, Cllr.Seamus Coyle.
Gerry Finlay is hosting the annual Kieran Finlay Golf Tournament on 9th September at Wind Watch Golf and country Club, Hauppage, Long Island, New York. Since the annual tournament started the organisers have donated over €15, 000 to Ballybay Pearse Brothers and Ballybay Cancer Society. If you know anyone from the Ballybay area who is living in New York or if you have golfing friends in the Big Apple why not let them know that this tournament is on. As well as the golf there will be a lavish buffet afterwards in the Shandon Court, East Islip, Long Island.
Tullycorbett CCE had a very successful Ulster Fleadh. Several members won medals and a number of members qualified for the Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann in Drogheda in August! The medal winners were as follows:
Flute 15-18 - 2nd Mark Ó Tomanaigh, Piano Accordion 12-15 - 1st Laura McMahon, Piano Accordion 15-18 - 2nd Dervla Ní Threasaigh and 3rd Orlaith Brennan, Piano 12-15 - 3rd Laura McMahon, Flute Slow Airs 15-18 - 1st Emer Ruddin, Full Set Ladies U12 - 2nd Tullycorbet, Full Set Ladies 12-15 - 2nd Tullycorbet, Full Set Ladies 15-18 - 1st Tullycorbet, Full Set Mixed U12 -3rd Tullycorbet, Half Set Mixed U18 - 1st Tullycorbet, Sean Nos U12 - 3rd Mary Walsh, Comhra 11-13 - Q Muireann Ní Fhearchair, Comhra 15-18 - Q Dervla Ní Threasaigh and Q Donna Ní Threasaigh, Storytelling 15-18 - 1st Niall Grogan and 2nd Donna Ní Threasaigh, 8 Hand Ladies 15-18 - 1st Foirne Rince Mhuineacháin (Annmarie Lavelle, Aoife Lennon, Sinéad Grogan, Sinéad Duffy), 4 Hand Ladies 12-15 - 1st Foirne Rince Mhuineacháin (Laura McMahon, Rachel, Shauna Lennon), 4 Hand Ladies 15-18 - 2nd Foirne Rince Mhuineacháin Foireann B (Annmarie Lavelle, Aoife Lennon, Sinéad Duffy, Sinéad Grogan), 4 Hand Mixed 12-15 - 1st Foirne Rince Mhuineacháin (Shauna Lennon), 4 Hand Mixed 15-18 - 1st Foirne Rince Mhuineacháin (Annmarie Lavelle, Niall Grogan, Sinéad Duffy), 4 Hand Mixed O18 - 1st Foirne Rince Mhuineacháin (Niall Grogan).
A Family Fun Day and Consultation on the Ballybay Public Realm and Economic Plan will be held at Ballybay Town Park on Saturday September 1st from 2-5 pm. Come and enjoy a great day out with friends and family and have your say on plans for the area. Remember, it’s our town and our future! Speaking about the day and the consultation local man Rory Mc Atavie said, “This promises to be a great day, rather than the normal public consultation the Council have decided to have a Family Fun day and also present the detailed and comprehensive plans which are at a draft stage regarding the future of our town. The presentation of ideas is quite impressive and should act as template for the next 5 to 10 years but it is vital that all the Community views the proposals and make their voice heard. This is a great opportunity for Ballybay as a community to plan for the future, the idea of viewing it as part of a family day is a great idea so why not bring the kids, enjoy the event and make your views regarding the towns future heard”.
If you are a job seeker on a social welfare payment, or a dependant, looking for support with employment, training and education you may engage with our service. Our office is open from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm Monday to Friday, in Birch Court, Ballybay. We offer Information and advice, career guidance, financial funding, information and advice on recruitment and on any government incentives. We have a jobs board displaying vacancies and other information you may require when seeking employment. If you are an Employer and wish to recruit new staff you can register with our service also. Our contact number is 042 9748090.
On Monday evening the local league semi finals were played at the outdoor pavilion. After a fantastic evening bowling Clontibret beat Ballybay Whites by just one shot and in the other semi Cootehill got the better of Ballybay Green. Clontibret will now play Cootehill in the final (date will be announced shortly). It is hoped that the final of the Jackie Rutledge Cup will take place on Monday next.
The games in the outdoor cup is making progress but was we are waiting on Latton and Ardaghey to get off the mark and hopefully they will play this week as will Muckno and Shercock.
The Town Tournament is making steady progress with Darren Smyth’s Newsagents having a comprehensive win over kevin Quinn’s Hardware store selection to reach the final. They will now play the winner of the postmen and the Soda Barrell.
The Border Counties team is still in top spot after last weeks games but the margin is getting small as there is only 3 points between Ballybay and Omagh whom we play this week away on Omagh’s grass green.
Well done to Joe Sullivan who organised an 80’s/90’s disco in the Ballybay Inn on Saturday night which raised €700 for the Ballybay Cancer Society. By all accounts it was a super evening -proof of this can be seen on the Ballybay and its People facebook page (thanks to John Rutledge and his trusted camera). Joe would like to thank everyone who attended, Pat and Paul in the Ballybay Inn and Ina Hagan for the hamper which was raffled on the night.
On Sunday 19th August the annual Mass at Carga Rock will be held. This will take place in lieu of the Sunday mass in Tullycorbett.
Paul Gallier, Community Sports Development Officer would like to bring more activities to Ballybay. He is running a Green Gym programme every Thursday morning for the month of August on the new exercise gym equipment recently installed in Ballybay Town Park. This exercise programme is for people over 16 years old and starts each morning at 11am. For further information or to reserve a place contact Paul at 042 9755126 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
The Ulster Fleadh proved very successful for the members of the Tullycorbet CCE as numerous members won medals and some of them will now go forward to Drogheda to represent Tullycorbet, Monaghan and Ulster at the All Ireland Fleadh. The successful participants were:
On Friday, 26th October, TG4 Glór Tíre 2018 Winner, Gary Fitzpatrick, will be onstage in Tullycorbet Community Centre for Joanne's big Charity Barn Dance in aid of Ballybay Cancer Society! The event may be a few months away but put the date in your diary and we will have more details as we approach the date.
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.
The recent Variety Concert held on 12th August in Tullycorbet was a major success. Organised locally and featuring a magnificent cast of local storytellers, musicians, comedians and dancers – the event raised a whopping €7000 for the Ballybay Cancer Society. The organisers would like to thank most sincerely everyone who participated and everyone who supported the event. Sally Mc Aviney accepted the cheque on behalf of the Ballybay Cancer Society.
Irish dancing returns to Tullycorbet on Thursday 7th September. There will be two sessions each night. At 6-15pm it will the turn of beginners and U8’s while at 7pm dancing for all others will commence.
Everyone is welcome to a Gospel Meeting in the Faith Mission Hall, Bushford, Rockcorry on Friday 1st September 2017 at 8pm . This meeting is organised by Ronnie & Carey Killops of the Faith Mission. All welcome. Plan to come, and bring a friend. Refreshments afterwards.
Latton O'Rahilly G.A.A. Centre is the place to be on Saturday 9th September as Monaghan I.F.A. host Frank's Charity Party, on the occasion of the illustrious Frank Brady's 60th Birthday. Frank's multitude of friends from the farming and agricultural sectors, his football and hurling GAA worldwide friends, neighbours and family will gather to celebrate this great milestone for Frank and to raise funds for SOSAD,ALZHEIMERS & DOWN SYDROME. Doors open from 7.30pm. M.C. on the night is Sean McCaffrey, with a draw for all attending on the night for All-Ireland Football Final Tickets from Monaghan GAA. There will also be numerous special guests from the G.A.A./I.F.A./Broadcasting & Media and entertainment world making appearances. There will also be a Pig on the Split, Draws with fabulous prizes and lots more. Tickets available from I.F.A. members and local outlets-so Latton's the place to be on Saturday 9th September from 7.30pm for Frank's Charity Party.
Last week we mentioned a number of individuals from the area who were successful at the All Ireland Fleadh in Ennis. Well apologies to Stephen Mc Mahon who was ommitted. Stephen was part of the senior 8 hand team which claimed 2nd overall.
Ballybay Special Needs will be holding their annual church gate collection takes place on Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd September. Your support of this worthy cause would be very much appreciated.
Dolores Maguire is seeking expressions of interest from anyone in Ballybay and surrounding areas with an interest in forming a new Photographic Society/Camera Club. No special equipment required just a camera or a phone and a desire and interest to take pictures. If you are interested you can private message Dolores on facebook or contact her at 0868340501.
Traditional Irish music lessons on numerous instruments will commence in Tullycorbett Community Centre on Wednesday 6th September from 4-30pm to 6-30pm. Registration for anyone interested in learning a new instrument will take place on Monday 4th September in the Community Centre at 7pm. Further details is also available on facebook at Tullycorbet CCE.
Congratulations to Seamus Smith, George Berry, Shane West and Seamus Lennon on winning their third consecutive champion of champions rinks competition last weekend. Good luck to the lads in the finals in Omagha in September.
The newly formed Ballybay Tidy Towns Committee launched their 2017-2020 three year Plan on Monday evening last. The venue for the launch was the old Day Care Centre at the rear of the Municipal Council Offices/Library.Seamus Coyle, Chairman of the Clones Ballybay Municipal District welcomed everyone and immediately praised the work of the Tidy Towns committee. “It’s a credit to the committee to see progress being made. I have seen people out doing great work. I am also delighted that Monaghan County Council commissioned Billy Flynn to formulate a 3 year plan and I hope that all present will focus on the actions contained within”, said Councilor Coyle. Before handing over to Billy Flynn the Chairman added, “It’s important to get complete buy in from the community who in turn will have a pride in their place”.Clones native Billy Flynn had been commissioned to carry out the plan and he produced a fairly detailed piece of work. He has a wealth of experience in producing action plans and has been a Tidy Towns judge for 10years.
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.
Tullycorbett Community Centre will host a variety concert on Saturday 12th August with all proceeds being donated to the Ballybay Cancer Society. There will be no charge for the concert but donations can be left at the door on the way in. The show will open with the very popular Ciaran Rosney and will also feature Blackwater Céilí Band, The Siansa Gael Linn Band, Novelty Acts, Local Artists, various Musical and Dance Groups and much much more. It promises to be a fantastic night's entertainment and all for a very worthy cause, you're not going to want to miss it! Raffle on the night and refreshments served. There will also be a music session in Liam Smyth’s, Ballybay afterwards.
The final of the Mc Gurk Shield will take place at Omagh Outdoor Bowling Green on Tuesday 22nd August between Ballybay and Dungannon. The Ballybay Outdoor club has already won this trophy on two occasions in our time competing in the Border County’s league. With two games left in the Border Counties league we are in third place with a game in hand on Enniskillen who are in the lead at this time. The Town Tournament is down to the semi final stage, with Murnane’s already in the final and awaiting the outcome of the game between Paul Carragher’s and Patricia Mc Cabe’s better known as Soda barrel – that game will be played tomorrow evening 11th August. The games in the Outdoor cup are progressing well now with the following games to be played next week. Corcaghan v BVallybay White, Derryvalley v Ballybay maroon, Clontribet v St. Micahels and Latton v Shercock.Owing to the Monaghan v Dublin game our rinks qualifying games was put off until this Saturday 12th August so there is still time to get your name on the list in the club pavilion. Draws will take place at 9pm on Friday and all games will start at 11am sharp on Saturday.
The annual Eucharistic Healing Novena in honour of our lady of Lourdes in Cuan Mhuire, Ballybay started on Tuesday night and will run until Wednesday 16th August. This is the ninth annual Novena and it commences each evening at 7-15pm with the rosary. There will also be a Holy hour each morning from 11am until 12noon. Everyone welcome.
Tanagh Outdoor Education & Training Centre is hosting a Heritage Canoe Paddle on the Dromore River from 10am-3pm on Wednesday the 23rd August. This is a relaxing canoe paddle suitable for all ages, especially those interested in history, archaeology and natural beauty. Booking is essential and can be done by contacting Contact Philomena on 049-5552988.
The local Pearse Brothers B team lost their Reserve Football Division 2A Final last Friday night in Blackhill. On the night Killanny were victorious 0-13 to 1-9. Full report on the sports pages.
Westcare Homecare Ltd. are recruiting female and male care assistants in the Ballybay area.
Applicants must have FETAC Level 5 in Healthcare and Patient Moving & Handling.
Tel: 071 914 6768 / 087 974 5273
Fair play to Joe Sullivan who organized a 60’s night in the Ballybay Inn last Saturday in aid of the Ballybay Cancer Society. A donation bucket was placed at the door and over €500 was raised. Speaking to the Ballybay news Joe said, “We had a great night and a good dancing crowd and in turn raised a few euros for an excellent cause. The plan from here on is to make the night an annual occasion the weekend of Blessing of the Graves”. Joe would also like to thank Pat O Brien for the use of his premises, John Rutledge for taking photographs which are currently doing the rounds on facebook and everyone who turned up to support the evening.
Local man and Voice of Ireland Winner 2014 Brendan Mc Cahey will be performing in Latton O'Rahilly G.A.A. Centre on Friday 4th August. Doors open at 9pm. A great night is guaranteed as one of Ireland top performers comes to Latton. Everyone is welcome to the O'Rahilly G.A.A. Centre to kick off the August Bank Holiday Weekend.
Tullycorbett Community Centre will host a variety concert on Saturday 12th August with all proceeds being donated to the Ballybay Cancer Society. There will be no charge for the concert but donations can be left at the door on the way in. The show will open with the very popular Ciaran Rosney and will also feature Blackwater Céilí Band, Novelty Acts, Local Artists, various Musical and Dance Groups and much much more. It promises to be a fantastic night's entertainment and all for a very worthy cause, you're not going to want to miss it! Raffle on the night and refreshments served.
Well done to Philly Gibson and Stephen Duffy who qualified on Saturday 22nd July for the final of the outdoor pairs. The final of this competition will be held on the 2nd September at the Omagh Bowling Club. The rinks competition due to be played this Saturday has been postponed owing to the Monaghan game and will be played on Saturday 12th August starting at 10am. This rinks qualifying competition will take place at the Ballybay Outdoor Club. Now is the time to get your name on the time sheet in the club pavilion as the draw will be made at 8pm on Friday evening (10th August).Another date for your diary is Saturday 19th August when we travel to Fivemiletown to play for the Vincent Cup. This will start at 12-30pm and will be followed by a meal at 4pm in the Clogher Valley Golf Club. Once again you need to put your name on the Travel sheet.As the Ballybay Outdoor bowling club has qualified for the final of the Mc Gurk Shield its hoped to play the game v Dungannon on Tuesday 22nd August at a neutral venue which is the Omagh Bowling Green.
This Sunday is been deemed Gaelic Sunday by the GAA and will commemorate "Sunday 4th August 1918",when the GAA nationally organized a day of playing of Gaelic Games and Cultural activities throughout Ireland. This was in protest at the oppression of occupying forces who sought to have the GAA seek a permit for each event. This Sunday Latton O Rahilly’s will host a wonderful day of entertainment and fun for all the family starting at 3pm. There will be live entertainment in the Centre from 7pm with Lightening Express and a host of Scor Participants from years past
On Monday next 7th August there will be an historical tour of fields and sites in Latton associated with the GAA. Starting at the Centre at 2pm sharp the tour will include Coyle’s Point and field, Connolly’s Field, Derrygooney (venue of Bawn Erin Hopes), Mc Geough’s Meadow, Rice’s Field and The old Bawn handball alley. This promises to be a very interesting day so if you’re interested be at the O’Rahilly Centre at 2pm.
The 57th edition of the All Ireland Championships took place on Sunday last on the lakes around Ballybay. 89 anglers representing the four provinces including competitors who travelled from as far as Cork checked in at the Wetlands Centre ahead of the five-hour match.Six sections were fished from the shores of White Lake and Loughs Egish and Sillan with the average match weight 5.13kg per angler overall. Different conditions were experienced cross the venues with squally weather and bright spells throughout the day. Lough Egish known for its large roach and Sheila’s Shore was the draw of choice having produced the 2016 Champion, but it was not to be with just the end pegs fishing. The shallower waters although be-set by the dreaded pond weed produced the finest nets of quality fish the area is known for. Bream Rock on White Lake fished particularly well delivering the top 5 winners.Chris Simpson, MAP Fishing of Moira Co. Armagh’s efforts at clearing his swim from weed and his decision to fish the feeder paid off with a 24.750kg bag of quality hybrids and a specimen bream to win the match. Chris whose name will now be firmly on the historical cup received his trophy and €500 prize money from Oliver McGauley President of the NCFFI. Runner-up Gary Drew of Enniskillen was beside Chris at Bream Rock where his end peg produced 23.180kg for him. Neil Mazurek Tony Green and Cathal Hughesfinished 3rd, 4th and 5th respectably from the same venue. Other notable weights came from Shamie Winters 9.400kg at Caravan Park, Sillan; Irish Youth International James O'Doherty 9.64kg at Bairds Shore and Johnny Keith 12.900kg at Lough Egish.A full pay-out of all entry with 5 peg sections and the top five followed the match at the Welcome Inn, Mena Martins. A special presentation was made to Youth International Roisin Bohan, the only female to enter this match this year but whose efforts were to be commended. Roisin had a difficult day on Sheila’s Shore for a handful of fish, catching when other senior anglers didn’t weigh.Cllr Seamus Coyle, Chair of the Clones Ballybay Municipal Council welcomed the anglers and organisers to the area. He commended the recent road improvements at Bairds Shore funded though the IFI NASD programme and delivered by the Council and pledged more improvements to support local angling. He wished the Youth Team members well for the upcoming Championships and the organisers with the running of the event whilst stressing the importance of the promotion of angling in Ireland.
Former Ballybay pearse Brothers player Emmet Mc Aviney who now resides in Kilkenny was back home at the weekend as part of his "Run with the Stars" in aid of Barnardo's. Emmet has been running since the 1st August and plans to have 1000 mile done by the 30th October when he runs the Dublin marathon. On Saturday last Emmet was joined by past and present members of the Ballybay Pearse Brothers and other locals including a number of children who then participated in Emmets run for the day and helped raise much needed funds for Barnardos Children's charity. Emmet is well on his way to running 1000 miles and raising the fantastic amount of €10, 000. For more info see the link below & to keep up the great work Emmet is doing check out https://www.facebook.com/milesforsmiles.ie/?fref=ts
A massive day of events in aid of SOSAD is planned for tomorrow Friday 26th August in the Century Bar Main Street, Ballybay. Firstly there will be a coffee morning kicking off at 10am and along this will be the launch of a “Bake Off” competition. Tea, coffee and refreshments will be served all morning and then at 12noon judging of the “Bake Off” competition will take place. At 4pm there will be a busking competition so all you budding entertainers got down to the Century Bar to be in with a chance to win. At 8pm there will be a table quiz and this will be followed by a monster raffle at 10pm. Guitars signed by the Coronas will be auctioned and the high flying band the Strypes will be doing a meet and greet. All in all it promises to be a great day in aid of a great cause. All monies raised will be donated to SOSAD who do brilliant work to break the stigma around mental health.
Ballybay will host two triathlons this Saturday 27th August. These are both sanctioned events by Triathlon Ireland. In the sprint event there will be a 750m swim, a 20km cycle and a 5km run while in the Olympic event the swim is 1500m, the cycle 40km and the run 10km. To register visit www.triathlonireland.com
Congratulations to our local children who travelled to Athlone last weekend and who each performed very well in their individual activity. Niall Grogan captivated the judges and audience with his excellent recitation and secured third place winning a Bronze Medal at the National Community Games Finals representing County Monaghan. A massive well done to Niall – Tullycorbett Community Games are very proud of you. Niall who was also competing at the All Ireland Fleadh in Ennis, Co Clare had to travel to Athlone for the competition and back to Ennis again. He is a very busy man. Well done also to Abbie Hughes and Eoin Sheridan who did us proud in their races where they both qualified in their heats to the semi- finals where they gave an exceptional display of their ability. Well done to you. We are very proud of you all.
Everyone is welcome to a Gospel Meeting in the Faith Mission Hall, Bushford, Rockcorry on Friday 2nd September 2016 at 8pm. This meeting is organised by Ronnie & Carey Killops of the Faith Mission. Plan to come, and bring a friend. There will be refreshments afterwards.
Ballybay are through to the next round of the senior championship courtesy of a
2-15 to 0-4 win over Truagh in Clontibret last Sunday. This wasn’t much of a test for the local lads and there will be tougher challengers ahead but nevertheless it was a great result now Ballybay advance. Full match report in the sports pages.
A date for all your diaries, Sunday 18th September (All Ireland final day). On that morning there will be a big charity breakfast in Drumhowan. All proceeds to Ballybay cancer Society.
Despite inclement weather on last Saturday morning play went ahead on the outdoor bowling green where the rinks competition were to be held. Before the first game the sun came out and a very pleasant evenings bowling took place. There were eight teams in the draw which meant all games were filled from the start. The last two teams were Paudge Cassidy’s team who met Seamus Smyth’s side in the final. After eleven ends of bowls Seamus and his team were the winners by a slim margin. On Seamus team were Seamus Lennon, George Berry and Dorothy Berry. Paudges losing side were JJ Duffy, Cora Smyth and Brendan Traynor. Our sponsor of prizes for this competition was Gabriel Traynor of Traynor Trophies to whom we are most thankful. Gabriel was on hand to make the presentation at the conclusion.
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.
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 086 1703640.
Local athlete Conor Duffy was piped at the post in last Sunday’s 10 mile race organized by Monaghan Town Runners. Conor finished 2nd out of a field of 516 and was a single second behind the winner Freddy Keron Sittuk. Conor ran the 10 mile in a time of 53minutes 15 seconds which is an average speed of 5minutes 20 seconds per mile. This was a fine piece of running from Conor.
Ballybay Octoberfest is looking for buskers to come to Ballybay on Saturday 1st September and Sunday 2nd September. A number of groups have expressed an interest in performing and we would be delighted to increase the numbers. For details contact 087 7687248 or private message our Facebook page (Ballybay Octoberfest).
From August 1st to October 30th former Ballybay footballer Emmet Mc Aviney now resident in Killkenny will aim to run 1000 miles, culminating with the 26.2 miles of the Dublin City Marathon. Over the 90 days he will run approximately 10 miles a day, recording the distances on Strava.
As part of the challenge he will be hosting 6 Saturday fun runs with GAA County Stars at their local clubs. Families and children can come and join him and their County Heroes to run a mile and raise funds by donating €5 each to join the run. As with all donations, 100% of funds raised will go to assist Barnardos in supporting disadvantaged children and families at Christmas.
This Saturday 20th August, Emmet will be doing this with some of the Monaghan stars, including Paul Finlay, Drew Wylie, Ryan Wylie, Conor McManus and hopefully a few more to be confirmed. This will happen at 11:45am at Ballybay GAA grounds. More details are available at www.milesforsmiles.ie on Facebook as milesforsmiles.ie or on Twitter as @milesforsmiles1
Ballybay will host two triathlons on Saturday 27th August. These are both sanctioned events by Triathlon Ireland. In the sprint event there will be a 750m swim, a 20km cycle and a 5km run while in the Olympic event the swim is 1500m, the cycle 40km and the run 10km. To register visit www.triathlonireland.com
Well done to the Under 12 Music Group, the Under 13 Swimming Squad and the individual swimmers who gave excellent performances in Athlone at the weekend at the National Community Games Finals. These children proudly represented Co Monaghan. They were: Group Music Under 12 - Laura Mc Mahon, Rachael Brennan, Connor Curran, Éanna Curran and Jonathon Lavelle. The Music Group where managed by Francis Mc Mahon. Under 13 Swimming Squad - Ruadhan Curran, Connor Curran,Tom Doherty, Caolan Reilly and Tiarnan Reilly.
Under 10 Backstroke - Eanna Curran and Under12 Freestyle - Conor Curran.
Good luck is wished to Niall Grogan, Abbey Hughes and Eoin Sheridan who are representing County Monaghan at the National Community Games Finals in Athlone this weekend. Niall is in the U16 recitation, Abbey is in the U8 60m and Eoin is in the U10 200m.
Niall is also competing in the Fleadh in Ennis at the weekend, so he is a very busy man with an excellent recitation if you get a chance to hear him. We wish him and all the other local families travelling to the fleadh good luck also.
On Sunday next 21st of August Ballybay face Traugh in the second round of the Greenfield Foods Senior Football Championship in Clontibret. There is a full preview in the sports pages. Why not get along to Clontibret on Sunday evening to support the team.
The local league reached the play off stage on Monday evening the 15th August when Ballybay Whites took on Clontibret Saffron and Latton played Derryvalley. All games were very competitive and the result was in doubt until the last fewends. It was a glorious evening to have these games and the spectators really enjoyed both matches. In the end Ballybay Whites had a comprehensive win over Clontibret however Latton just managed a one shot victory over Derryvalley.
Saturday next 20th August will see the champion of champions rinks qualifier which starts at 11am and will be played to a finish.
We hoped to have a date this week for the Gerald Mc Guirk memorial shield final against Omagh however this has yet to be decided. What we do know is that we will have home advantage. In the meantime the Ballybay team should get in as much practice as possible. The last time we won the shield was in 2013 when we also won the league but there was no hope of repeating that feat this year as we have finished in second place behind Dungannon who got 89 points and we had 82. Some of the other clubs have to play their last games so we hope to have a final update next week.
On Saturday 3rd September the champion of champions will take place on our green, so we need to get together soon to have it looking pristine for that big day when all 8 teams in the border counties will be present.
Pictured is Monsignor Mc Sorley and his brother which was taken at a recent function held by the Tyrone County Board to honour the All Irlenad minor winning teams of 1947 and 1948. The 1947 team was the first team from the six counties to win an All Ireland title and the two Mc Sorley boys were members. A team mate of the boys was Barney Eastwood who went on to manage Barry Mc Guigan. Congratulations to Monsignor who still takes a keen interest in all things GAA 70 years after winning an All Ireland title!
Good luck to all the children from Tullycorbet Parish who are representing County Monaghan at the National Community Games Finals in Athlone this weekend.
Swimming - Under 10 Backstroke Eanna Curran, Under12 Freestyle, Conor Curran and Under 13 Squad, Ruadhan Curran, Connor Curran, Tom Doherty, Caolan Reilly and Tiarnan Reilly. Group Music Under 12- Laura Mc Mahon, Rachael Brennan, Connor Curran, Éanna Curran and Jonathon Lavelle. The Music Group is managed by Francis Mc Mahon who has successfully tutored several winning groups over the years. This is the first year he is taking an Under 12 age group and we know they will give an excellent performance. We know you will all do your best and we wish you all the best of luck.
The final qualifier for the Pairs champion of champions took place on Saturday last in almost tropical conditions. Philip Gibson and Matt Mooney are the pair going forward to represent the club on Saturday 3rd September after a very competitive and sometimes nail biting final. We had Jockey Gibson and our newest member Stephen “Quiz Book” Duffy in contention until the last bowl was thrown with the final score recorded 12 points to Philip and 11 points to Jockey. Our next competition will be the rinks (fours) which takes place on Saturday 20th August starting at 11am and like the other competition will be played to a finish. The time sheet will be on the notice board in the club pavilion so now is the time to get your name down so you will be in the draw.
It looks like the Dungannon Bowls club will be the winners of the Border Counties League as they are 7 points ahead of Ballybay and Enniskillen with only one game left. The Ballybay Club is in the final of the Gerald Mc Gurk Memorial Shield when they play Drumragh from Omagh on Wednesday 24th August on our home green. We expect a favorable result in this competition.
Kevin Malcolmson from Swans Cross was ordained recently and will be in the parish on Sunday next. Fr. Kevin will be available for first blessings both before and after 12-15pm mass in St. Patrick’s. Everyone welcome.
The Irish Cancer Society wish to thank all those who contributed and helped out with their recent Church Gate collection at Tullycorbett and Ballintra churches. The amount raised was €782
The annual Novena at Cuan Mhuire, Ballybay started on Monday night last and has been attended by a large number all week. Our new local priest Stephen Duffy opened the Novena. The Novena runs until Tuesday next 16th August. The Novena takes place each evening at 7-15pm and there will also be Holy Hour each morning from 11am until 12noon. Everyone welcome.
It is with deep regret that we report the sad and untimely passing of Martin (Marty) Duffy, 25 Loch Mor Avenue. Marty was a former member of the Defence Forces and since his retirement he has been living abroad. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this sad time.
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.
The Ballybay Jobs Club for unemployed people will commence in Cuan Mhuire on Monday 22nd August. The Jobs Club is a three week course which runs from 9-30am until 12-30pm Monday to Thursday. Topics covered during the club include CV preparation, cover letters, interview techniques and job searching. Participants will also have the opportunity to take part in mock interviews. Further information is available from Linda or Teresa at 0429748090 or 086 8105058 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . The club is free of charge and will not affect your benefits. An attendance allowance will be paid on completion of the programme.
The annual Novena at Cuan Mhuire, Ballybay starts on Monday night next and runs until Tuesday 16th August. The Novena takes place each evening at 7-15pm. Everyone welcome.
Monaghan County Council in association with Cahans Restoration Committee will launch County Monaghan Heritage Week 2016, with an event at Cahans Meeting House, on Tuesday 9th August at 7pm.
The launch will take the format of a series of short talks highlighting the national heritage week events to be held in Monaghan from 20-28 August, and refreshments will be served.
The Cathaoirleach, Councillor PJ O’Hanlon will officiate at the event.
Members of heritage groups are invited and the public are all welcome to attend. Please pass on the invitation to anyone you consider could be interested.
Link to map click here
