CAHANS ULSTER SCOTS NIGHT

Slowly but surely Cahans Meeting House, Stranooden, Ballybay is developing a reputation as a community centre of cultural and social distinction.  On Friday 15 September last it was the occasion for an attentive audience to be entertained at an Ulster Scots Night which explored the language and music from Scots ancestors.

A fascinating talk and visual presentation by teacher Matthew Warwick of the Ulster Scots Community Network, introduced us to the words used to describe every day events, practices and human foibles that were spoken of generally throughout Ulster since the 17th century.  From that time, the Scots tongue came to Ulster with the waves of migration when up to 100,000 lowland Scots came in search of prosperity and religious freedom.  Within a century the language was firmly established.

During Matthew’s presentation many of us, especially those of us from an agricultural background, recalled the many traditional words that we grew up with and took for granted.  Words like `dunt` (a nudge) which a young calf might give you.  Or your mother could give out a `gulder` (a shout) if you didn`t `redd up` (tidy up) your toys. `Midlin` meant you were average.  If `crabbit`, you were angry.  Matthew gave lots of words and phrases of Scottish origin, for example: `pernickety` (fussy), `carnaptious` (irritable), `canny` (stubborn), `clarty`or `mingin` (dirty), and so on.  He also gave examples of once common phrases like `thon wee lad`s a hallion` (that fellow is a rascal) and `thon oul doll`s gye nebby` (that old woman is very nosey).   Matthew also brought along complimentary information on the Ulster Scots tradition including a `wee guide` to the language, a surname map and pocket history of the Scots in Ulster, a Cavan – Monaghan heritage trail brochure, and a child`s story book.

After the interval of tea and refreshments, the Northern Ireland folk group, Stonewall, playing a variety of musical instruments, enthralled the audience with a medley of Ulster Scots and Irish traditional songs and instrumentals. These included: The Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond, Aileen`s Joke, The Temperance Reel, gospel songs, and some amazing guitar playing.  A highlight of the performance was the rendition of the poignant Andy Irvine – Paul Brady song, Mary and the Soldier. Another high point was the recitation by Matthew of The Dance written by Charlie Gillen, Ballymoney.   A list of forthcoming events will be published soon.

ACTIVE ADULTS – ACTIVE FEST

Monaghan Sports Partnership is bringing the Active Adult Active Fest to every town this October to celebrate Positive Ageing Week and give adults (over 50) the opportunity to try some activities such as chair aerobics, boccia, kurling, bowls, line dancing, Zumba, Tai Chi and yoga. On Wednesday 4th October the Pearse Brothers centre will be the venue for the Ballybay sessions. These will be between 10am and 12-30pm and are free. It is important to register as places are limited. To register call Monaghan Sports Partnership at 042 9755126.

50/50 DRAW

The winner of this week’s 50/50 draw was Sean and Bernie Duffy (Ticket number 70). Sean and Bernie win €375. You can play online using the following link https://member.clubspot.app/club/ballybay/fundraisers or fill in the envelope in most shops and pubs in the town. There is a guaranteed winner every week!

PARTY POSTPONED

Due to unforeseen circumstances Smyth’s Bar, 50 years in business celebrations due to be held this weekend have been postponed. Liam and Anna intend to hold the celebrations at a later date so keep an eye on the paper for further details.

BUSY BABIES

Every Thursday between 9-45am and 11-30am, during term time babies, toddlers, parents, grandparents and care givers are welcome to Second Ballybay Presbyterian Church Hall in Hall Street. While the little ones play the big ones can enjoy a cuppa and a chat. Everyone welcome. There is no fee however it is suggested that each family make a €2 donation.

LEARN TO JIVE

Want to learn to jive? Classes will commence in Cuan Mhuire on 10th October at 7pm and will run for 5 weeks. Places are limited so to book contact 0868162334.

CULTURE NIGHT

As part of Culture Night, Camphill Community Ballybay invite you to the  Creative Lounge on Friday 22nd September. The Creative Lounge is an Inclusive Arts Connection. An inclusive event presented to adults and children with special needs. Expect a sensory experience to include, sound healing drumming, interactive singing, a captivating drama performance/reading, and music delivered by professional artists. Booking is required: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/camphillcommunityballybay/971237

CASH FOR CLOBBER

Ballybay Central School’s annual Cash for Clobber collection will take place on Friday10th November.  All unwanted clothes, bed linen, towels, shoes (paired) may be left into school after the October midterm break.  The money raised from the collection will be used to buy much needed resources for the school. Please spread the word amongst friends, neighbours and family members.  Your support is greatly appreciated.

ULSTER SCOTS NIGHT AT CAHANS

Cahans Meeting House (eircode H18 E7N1) presents an Ulster Scots night on Friday 15 September with Matthew Warwick and Stonewall. It will be an evening with a difference exploring the rich cultural heritage of Ulster Scots language and traditional music. The Irish Presbyterian heritage is largely Ulster Scots, part of a movement of people which crossed the Irish sea and the Atlantic ocean along with dispersing to so many parts of the globe. The evening begins at 8pm and will conclude with refreshemtns. Admission is €10 and everyone is welcome. More information can be found at https://www.cahans.ie/

GET WELL SOON

Best wishes to Liam Smyth who is recovering from knee surgery. Liam is getting himself fully fit for his 50 years in business celebrations which take place on the weekend of Saturday and Sunday 23rd and 24th September. It will be a big weekend of craic, entertainment and reminiscing so save the date and watch this space for more details.

NEW SEAT

The active residents of Corrybrennan Park and Culbrennan continue to make improvements to their estates. The most recent addition is a new summer seat at the entrance. Aidan Watters donated and made the steel frame for the seat.

MIXED FORTUNES FOR FOOTBALLERS

There were mixed fortunes for the footballers of Ballybay at the weekend. The men who are reigning county champions had a bye however results didn’t go their way and it now not possible to qualify for the semi finals. They play their last round robin game on Sunday at home to Truagh with a 5pm throw in. The ladies on the other hand are through to the County Intermediate final. This season the local side have amalgamated with Doohamlet and at the weekend they defeated Carrickmacross in the county semi-final. In the final they will meet Castleblayney who saw of Latton in the other semi-final. Check out further details in the sports pages.

LEARN TO JIVE

Want to learn to jive? Classes will commence in Cuan Mhuire on 10th October at 7pm and will run for 5 weeks. Places are limited so to book contact 0868162334.

TRACING YOUR FAMILY HISTORY

Want to get started on your family history? Genealogy classes beginning in Cuan Mhuire on Tuesday 19th September at 8pm. Contact 0868162334 to book your place.

LINE DANCING

Youth Line Dancing is returning to Tullycorbet Community Centre starting on Friday 15th September and running until 27th October. The classes will be from 6-30pm until 7-15pm. Contact (086) 070 2129 to book your places!

TRUCK RUN

Shaun Bremner Charity Truck run is taking place on Sunday the 8th of October. Entries are €30 per truck. Registration from 12pm and leaving at 2pm from Ballybay Mart. Money raised in support of Ballybay Pearse Brothers Quid Game Fundraiser and Cavan Monaghan Palliative Care Team. Free raffle for all drivers on registration.

PAROCHIAL HALL FOR HIRE

Ballybay Parochial Hall in Church Street is available for hire. The hall has a kitchenette, car parking, wifi and toilet facilities. It is also excellent value at just €25 per hour. Further information is available from any committee member.

CHRIST CHURCH AUGHNAMULLEN

The annual Harvest Service will be held on Sunday 10th September at 3-30pm. The guest preacher will be the rev. Ian Cruickshank, Rector of Carrickmacross. Alison Oliver will also be the special soloist on the day. There will be refreshments served after the service and everyone is welcome.

BEGINNERS COMPUTER CLASSES

Computer classes for beginners will be held in Tullycorbet Community Centre each Monday from 4th until 25th September. The classes will run from 7pm to 10pm. Laptops will be provided however participants may also take their own. To book you place contact 086 0702129.

OUTDOOR BOWLS

The outdoor bowling club travel to Letterkenny on Saturday next to participate in the champions of champions competition. Those competing in the rinks are B. Mc Gahey, B. Smyth, G. Martin and G. Treanor. The pairs team are S. Winters and S. Smyth, while Shane Mc Guinness will play in the singles. We wish them all the very best of luck. All games start at 11am.

GENEALOGY CLASSES

A four week Genealogy class will commence in Tullycorbet Community Centre on Monday 2nd October. This is a fantastic opportunity to find out how to research your family history/tree. The course is being run by CMETB and to book a place contact 086 0702129.

FAITH MISSION

You're welcome to the Faith Mission monthly Gospel Meeting on Friday 1st September 2023 at 8pm in Rockcorry Presbyterian Church hall, (permission kindly granted). Visiting speaker is the  Rev. David Hagan.  Organised by Brian and Hazel Parker Faith Mission Area Workers Cootehill.

ST. VINCENT DE PAUL

If you are in need of assistance for school/college, you can contact St. Vincent De Paul in writing, C/O Confraternity Room, Ballybay or by freephoning 1800 677777. Either way a SVP volunteer will follow up with a short visit to see how best the organisation can assist.

BACK TO SCHOOL

All three schools in Ballybay started back this week after their respective summer breaks. Good luck to all the students in Scoil Eanna, Ballybay Central School and Ballybay Community College for the 2023/24 school year.

PARKING CONCERNS

An anonymous local has been in touch with the suggestion that, “Ballybay Business need to get real about Parking”. In a letter sent to the paper they suggest that there is a chronic parking shortage in the town primarily from Centre on the Castleblayney Road to the Post Office on Main Street and when they regularly visit the town to do some shopping, they are unable to get parked in the town.

The unnamed author wasn’t afraid to voice their opinion on why there is a problem, saying, “The biggest issue as I see it in Business owners, staff members and residents and tenants parking on the Main Street as all day parkers”. After some investigations they found at least 25 cars parked on Main Street all day which they felt should be in a long term car park.

The annoyed local continued to vent their anger as they wrote, “What is particularly galling is that the new Town Car Park recently constructed by Monaghan County Council lies there empty everyday – now surely there should be a push to get these all day parkers, residents and shop workers to park in this car park and free up the Main Street”.

The letter received by the Ballybay News Correspondent was also copied to the Ballybay Town Team. The final line in the letter read, “Ballybay Business Owners would want to smell the coffee and get their own car and their staff’s cars moved off the main thoroughfare”.

HERITAGE WEEK

National Heritage Week will take place from 14th to 20th August and the Ballybay Heritage Group will be organising a photo exhibition entitled ‘The Old Ways of Ballybay – The changing face of the family homestead through the years’. This will be a celebration of local knowledge, customs, folklore and living traditions. There will be presentation boards in the Post Office and a stall at the Community Fair on 20th August. You can also check out the Ballybay Heritage Group Facebook page.

FEAST OF THE ASSUMPTION

The Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is on Tuesday next 15th August. To mark this important date in the church calendar there will be two masses in St. Patrick’s. The first will be at 9-30am and the other at 7-30pm.

BOTTLE BANK ISSUES

The receptacles at the town bottle bank were full at the weekend however some locals decided to leave their bottles and cans on the concrete in front of the bins. This practice prompted the Ballybay Tidy Towns committee to post a video which they called – ‘Thanks to the adults for this – Couldn’t wait until the bins were emptied’. Committee Chairman Martin Gleeson branded the practice, “Disgraceful”.

If the bins are full could locals please take their bottles and cans back with them and wait until the bins are emptied.

BALLYBAY PEARSE BROTHERS QUID GAME

Ballybay Pearse Brothers GAA are hosting a "Quid Game" Fundraising Event in The Glencarn Hotel Castleblayney on Friday 29th December. The club are recruiting 60 contestants to compete on the night with the winner receiving €10,000. If interested please contact Paul Finlay or Colin Malone, DM the club’s Facebook page for contact details.

COFFEE MORNING AND CAR WASH

The Gill and Niblock families have organised a coffee morning and car wash on Bank Holiday Monday. The event will take place at Aughnaclea , Ballybay (A75 YW20) between 10am and 2pm. All proceeds will go to The Cavan Monaghan Palliative Care Fund. Your support would be very much appreciated.

HERITAGE WEEK

National Heritage Week will take place from 14th to 20th August and the Ballybay Heritage Group will be organising a photo exhibition entitled ‘The Old Ways of Ballybay – The changing face of the family homestead through the years’. This will be a celebration of local knowledge, customs, folklore and living traditions. There will be presentation boards in the Post Office and a stall at the Community Fair on 20th August. You can also check out the Ballybay Heritage Group Facebook page.

SAD PASSINGS

It is with a heavy heart we report the sad passing of two well known Ballybay residents. On Monday 24th July Nancy Moen, Knocknamaddy died peacefully at Cavan General Hospital. Nancy was predeceased by her husband John and her death is deeply regretted by her sons, daughters, grandchildren ad wider family circle. Nancy was laid to rest on Thursday 27th July.

Pat Lynch, Castleblayney Road and formerly of Main Street died peacefully on Sunday last 30th July in the tender loving care of the nurses and staff at St. Anne’s Nursing Home, Ballybay. Deeply regretted by his loving wife Mary, sons and daughter and grandchildren. Pat was buried at St. Patrick’s, Ballybay yesterday 2nd August. May Nancy and Pat rest in peace.

TWO WEEKS TO COMMUNITY FAIR

Ballybay Towns Team are organising a 'Community Fair, Food and Fun Day' for Sunday 20th August. They are seeking interest for any business that would like to showcase their work on the day, these could include local Monaghan business, other small speciality business, entertainers, speciality food, crafts or anyone who would be willing to showcase their talents. Anyone interested, please send them a private message on their facebook page to express your interest. This will be a fun day for the whole community.

CAR BOOT SALE

Cuan Mhuire is hosting a Car Boot Sale on Bank Holiday Monday next at their premises on the Monaghan Road. Cars are just €10 and refreshments will be served. It is advisable to get their early as these sales usually attract large crowds.

IRISH BLOOD TRANSFUSION SERVICE

The Irish Blood Tranfusion Service will be at the Glencarn Hotel, Castleblayney today between 3-45pm and 8pm. As a result of covid 19 donations are by appointment only. To book an appointment phone 1800 222 11 between 9am and 5pm.

BALLYBAY PEARSE BROTHERS QUID GAME

Ballybay Pearse Brothers GAA are hosting a "Quid Game" Fundraising Event in The Glencarn Hotel Castleblayney on Friday 29th December. The club are recruiting 60 contestants to compete on the night with the winner receiving €10,000. If interested please contact Paul Finlay or Colin Malone, DM the club’s Facebook page for contact details.

8 MILLION LOANED

Congratulations to Ballybay Credit Union who recently announced that their loan book had reached €8million. This has allowed hundreds of people to buy cars, educate their children, go on holidays, put on extensions and much much more. Everyone involved should be very proud.

FLEADH SUCCESS

There was success last weekend at the Ulster Fleadh for 3 members of Tullycorbett CCE. Cormac McGinnity was second in the U12 accordian and now travels to the All Ireland in Mullingar. Laura McMahon had two thirds in the piano and the piano accordian and finally Muireann Carragher qualified Comhra Gailge.

MOVIE MIGHT

"The Race", an exciting new dance piece for children aged 4+ will be screened in Tullycorbet Community Centre on Friday 28th July at 6-30pm. Admission is free, refreshments will be served. However, all children must be accompanied by an adult.

LIAM SMYTH IS 50 YEARS IN BUSINESS

Congratulations to Liam and Anna Smyth who are 50 years in business 27/7/2023.  Liam opened the doors that Friday and has never looked back the following year his luck continued when he married Anna. The Latton duo went on to rear their 4 wonderful children in 14 Main Street. Over the years Liam and Anna have been blessed with wonderful staff and wonderful and loyal customers, sadly many of these great people are in The Highstool in Heaven's Bar & Lounge. Liam’s has given us 50 years of craic whether it be GAA ,horse racing , cattle sales and even a wee bit of politics thrown in. Thanks for everything. Here’s to the next 50. Love and best wishes from all your customers and friends

SONGS OF PRAISE

A songs of praise service will take place in Corlea Presbyterian Church (near Shantonagh) on Sunday 23rd July at 4pm. Everyone welcome.

BBQ PARTY IN DRUMHOWAN

Keep free Saturday 29th July for the annual Drumhowan Community BBQ Party evening at the Community Centre. The BBQ will help celebrate the end of the ‘Step into Summer’ challenge. Admission is by donation. Burgers, drinks and entertainment available.

OPEN EVENING

Ballybay Youth Club are hosting a family open evening today July 20th. Pop into Birch Court between 5-8pm to meet with the youth workers, sign up to groups and see what the youth club has to offer. The Youth club works with youngsters aged between 10 and 24. Refreshments will also be available.

ELAINE’S BREAKFAST MORNING

On Sunday 23rd April the Drumhowan community, Elaine Sheridan’s family and close friends united and hosted a breakfast morning in her memory with proceeds donated to Ballybay Cancer society. 

Not only did the sun shine on this day but the people shined even brighter. The community effort was overwhelming and to the people that helped out on this day "thanks" would never be enough. You did your community and Elaine proud.

The people came in there thousands to honour Elaine’s memory and to donate to such a worthy cause.  Unfortunately today Cancer seems to touch all families in some way so it is important we continue to support our local charity in the fight against this horrible disease. This money ensures Ballybay Cancer Society can keep up the invaluable work that they do.

Elaine is deeply missed by all who knew her, but this breakfast was a true reflection of how much.

Gavin , Lily and Conor and Elaine’s family and close friends wish to thank the Sponsors and everyone who donated to Elaine’s Breakfast morning and more importantly to the group of people that made this breakfast possible, they thank you from the bottom of their hearts.

The proceeds of the day of €25,730.00 went to Ballybay Cancer Society and the presentation of the cheque took place in Drumhowan GAA Centre just a few steps from Elaine’s home.

MOVIE NIGHT IN TULLYCORBET

"The Race", an exciting new dance piece for children aged 4+ will be SCREENED in Tullycorbet Community Centre on Friday, 28th July at 6:30 p.m.  "The Race” entwines three of Aesop's Fables to create a really fun, interactive and colourful world of animals, puppets, theatre and movement. Cheer with our cast of animals as the Tortoise and the Hare set off for the finish line, join the Grasshopper in gazing with fascination as the Ants collect food for the winter ahead, and root for the little Mouse as she faces down the mighty Lion! Watch as their journeys unfold through beautiful dance and share in the lessons they learn along the way. Come along to Tullycorbet on Friday, 28th July from 6:30 - 7:30 pm for this really fun, interactive show. Admission is FREE and refreshments will be served.  All children MUST be accompanied by an adult.

GREENWAY CONSULTATION EXTENDED

The Ballybay to Castleblayney Greenway is a proposed 15-kilometre walking and cycling path that would connect Ballybay to Castleblayney in Co. Monaghan. In addition to reconnecting these two areas and their associated attractions, it is envisioned that the proposed greenway would improve accessibility to other local attractions in the area, which, depending on the selection of the preferred route, may include Lough Major and Lough Muckno, old railway structures, and the Castleblayney outdoor adventure centre.

Ballybay to Castleblayney Greenway – Study Area Consultation Submission Deadline of the 6th of July has now been extended to the 20th of July, with the aim of holding the second Public Consultation on the 10th of August. Further information is available at: https://monaghan.ie/ballybay-to-castleblayney-greenway-constraints-study-and-technical-scoping-report/

SONGS OF PRAISE

A songs of praise service will take place in Corlea Presbyterian Church (near Shantonagh) on Sunday 23rd July at 4pm. Everyone welcome.

SUMMER AT THE YOUTH CLUB

Check out Ballybay Youth Clubs summer timetable. There are new groups running for the summer period, some time changes to the current groups and activities such as arts and crafts, five a side soccer and film making. To sign up or for more information on any of the groups, please contact Grainne/Ceara at 087 3753274 or 087 3961200.

TIDY TOWNS NEWS

Ballybay Tidy Towns would sincerely like to thank Ballybay Drama Group for their very generous donation of €500. It is greatly appreciated as they have a project in the pipeline. Watch this space for further details.

LATTON BAWN HISTORICAL GROUP

The Latton Bawn Historical Group are looking for old pictures of social events held in the parish. They are keen get hold of good quality images of concerts, plays ICA Events, etc. It is hoped to use some of the pictures in next years calendar. If you have any please contact any committee members who will arrange for the picture to be scanned and returned.

COMMUNITY FAIR

Ballybay Towns Team are organising a 'Community Fair, Food and Fun Day' for Sunday 20th August . The team are currently seeking interest from any business that would like to showcase their work on the day, these could include local Monaghan business, other small speciality business, entertainers, speciality food, crafts or anyone who would be willing to showcase their talents. Anyone interested, please send a private message to the Ballybay Town Team facebook page to express your interest. This will be a fun day for the whole community, and the team look forward to planning an exciting day for all.

BLESSING OF THE GRAVES

Dates are now available for the annual Blessing of the Graves. Ballintra will be linked with 11am mass on Sunday 23rd July. Tullycorbett will be linked with 9-30am mass on Sunday 3oth July and St. Patrick’s will also be held on Sunday 30th July at 3pm. The parish office would appeal to those cleaning their graves in Tullycorbet to take their waste home rather than dump it in the adjoining hedge. Parishioners should also note that the parish email address has changed to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

UPCOMING FIXTURES

On Friday night Ballybay meet Emyvale in the Crawley Cup final. Throw in is a 8pm and Kyle Brannigan takes charge. On Sunday Pearse Park will host the U17 meeting of Ballybay and the neighbour’s Drumhowan at 12noon. On Tuesday evening next (18th July) Ballybay are at home to Clones in round 10 of the Division 1B Reserve League. Throw in 8pm.

BOY WONDER VIOLINIST

Ballybay Heritage Facebook Page recently published an article for the press dated 16th October 1937. The article entitled ‘Boy Wonder Violinist’ was sent to them by Fiona Hunter who lives in Glasgow but who a relative of the boy in question. The article reads as follows:

“The artist who scored the biggest triumph of this year on the stage of the theatre Royal, Dublin, was a boy of thirteen years – Xavier Gibson, from Ballybay. This young genius secured his Diploma in violin playing (A.L.C.M) before his 13th birthday. The most exacting critics pronounce him a marvel of talent. His marvellously accomplished playing of the accordion drew rounds upon rounds of applause at the Theatre Royal where he secured an unprecedented triumph being recalled several times to take a bow. Master Gibson has been engaged to appear at the Magnet Cinema for the week beginning Monday October 25th”.

CREDIT UNION TEAMS UP WITH LUKE MULLIGAN

Ballybay Credit Union is delighted to team up with local lad, Luke Mulligan as their brand ambassador. They were delighted to officially welcome Luke onboard recently at a launch in their offices. Luke is currently playing with Dundalk FC. Luke made his Ireland Debut on 5th October 2021 at U14 Level. He has had the honour of representing his country against Poland, Montenegro, Wales, Spain & Mexico. Luke then moved on to the U16 Ireland squad and was part of the winning Victory Shield Team and indeed captained his Country against Northern Ireland.

Speaking at the launch Luke had this to say “I am a member of Ballybay Credit Union and I’m delighted to have this opportunity to get involved with them and some exciting events in the next few months.“ Also speaking at the launch Ballybay Credit Union’s CEO Marie O’Neill stated “As a credit union we’re delighted to welcome a fantastic young local sportsman like Luke onboard. We have chosen Luke as our ambassador as he is local to our Credit Union and we hope that as his career moves on, we will be with him all the way. As a Credit Union we pride ourselves on being part of the community and in conjunction with Luke we will be running community-based events over the next few months.

INJURY DELAYS EMMET’S ALL IRELAND RUN

Emmet Mc Aviney was to start his Malin to Mizen Run in aid of Barnardos on 28th June however due to injury Emmet has had to postpone the run until next year. Speaking to the Ballybay News Emmet said, “I am hugely disappointed that I can’t complete this run for a very worthy cause, but I will be back next year stronger than ever. If anyone who has donated would like a refund, please contact me directly and I will arrange same. See ye all in summer 2024. Thanks”.

HAVE YOU GOT NEWS

If you have any news that you would like considered for the Ballybay News Page please contact Paul at either This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 0861703640. Those emailing should do so before 11pm on Monday nights in order to be sure of publication on Thursday.

DRUMHOWAN FAMILY FUN DAY

Drumhowan Community Centre is hosting a Family Fun Day on Saturday. Registration is from 3pm and events include team games, races, facepainting, penalty shoot out and lots more. All will be followed by the annual summer barbeque.  

COFFEE MORNING IN CAHANS

Everyone is welcome to Cahans Meeting House on Saturday 1st July to enjoy a Coffee Morning. This event will run from 10-30am until 1pm. Connect with like-minded individuals, share stories, and embrace the sense of community that Cahans has to offer. Enjoy a rich blend of freshly brewed coffee and delectable treats that will leave you craving for more.

EMMET TO PASS THROUGH BALLYBAY TOMORROW

Emmet Mc Aviney started his Malin Head to Mizen Head run on yesteday. The Ballybay native is running the length of Ireland in aid of Barnardos Ireland. Emmet will be stopping at a number of GAA clubs during his mammoth run including Ballybay tomorrow Friday 30th June at 10-30am. So far Emmet has raised €13, 098, an amazing amount of money. Emmet is eager for people to join him on the run and full details can be accessed on Malin to Mizen Run for Barnardos. You can sponsor Emmet on this super charity run on the following link…https://www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/EmmetMcAviney

MONAGHAN COUNTY DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2025-2031 - PUBLIC CONSULTATION WORKSHOPS

On Thursday the 11th of May 2023 , Monaghan County Council published a notice of the intention to review the current Monaghan County Development Plan 2019-2025 and to prepare a new Monaghan County Development Plan for the period of 2025-2031.

In order to encourage discussion on the key issues facing the County over the next plan period 2025-2031, the Forward Planning team will facilitate drop-in workshops in the five towns in the month of June .

Please come along , we want to hear what you think should be included in your new development plan!

Details of times and venues are attached. 

COMMUNITY FAIR

Ballybay Towns Team are organising a 'Community Fair, Food and Fun Day' for Sunday 20th August . The team are currently seeking interest from any business that would like to showcase their work on the day, these could include local Monaghan business, other small speciality business, entertainers, speciality food, crafts or anyone who would be willing to showcase their talents. Anyone interested, please send a private message to the Ballybay Town Team facebook page to express your interest. This will be a fun day for the whole community, and the team look forward to planning an exciting day for all.

CAMPHILL OPEN DAY

Camphill is hosting an open day on Sunday 25th June from 2pm until 5pm at Robb Farm, Clones Road, Ballybay. All the usual attractions will be on offer. If anyone would like to donate to the day could they please contact the community directly.

RECENT DEATHS WITH LOCAL CONNECTIONS

Two men have died recently who both had strong ties with Ballybay. Stanley Steen passed away in England. He was born in the town and went to school in Hall Street. He was employed in Corries Shop before he headed across the water to make a long life for himself. Joe Mc Cabe formally from Market Street Brae passed away on 7th June in the Mater Hospital Dublin. Joe was one of six brothers who were all engineers. He lived in Howth and was a passionate sailor. Throughout his remarkable career he served as Chairman of IDA, Irish Distillers, Aviva, Norwich Union and Irish Ropes. May they both rest in peace.

BLESSING OF THE GRAVES

Dates are now available for the annual Blessing of the Graves. Ballintra will be linked with 11am mass on Sunday 23rd July. Tullycorbett will be linked with 9-30am mass on Sunday 3oth July and St. Patrick’s will also be held on Sunday 30th July at 3pm.

GOLF CLASSIC

The Michael Deery Electrical Services Ltd sponsored Ballybay Pearse Brothers annual Golf Classic was held on Saturday last at Clones Golf Club. Full results and details next week.

TIDY TOWNS

The Tidy Towns committee have organised a clean up hour every Tuesday evening. If you can spare an hour then meet in the Square at 7pm. The town looks great at the moment but it can look even better with a wee bit of community help. Thanks are also due to Conor Duffy and Shane O Neill for their recent contributions. Conor was responsible for power washing and Shane for painting the walls at St. Patrick’s graveyard and on the Clones Road. Both look superb.

TREASURE HUNT

The Central School Parents Association are organising a treasure/scavenger hunt around the town on Monday 19th June, to celebrate the end of year. Refreshments will be served in the school afterwards.

SCOIL EANNA RUN A MARATHON

Congratulations to the pupils of Scoil Eanna who took to the Town Park on Monday last and ran a marathon in relay format. Every class and every student was involved and in under 3 hours the managed to clock up the combined marathon total (42, 195m or 26.2 miles). This is a massive achievement, so once again well done to all involved.

PADDY CLIMBS TO 4TH IN EUROPE

Ballybay born Paddy Rutledge beat Oriol Arenas at a major MMA event in Madrid on Saturday night last and in doing so has jumped up the European rankings. The 27 year old is now ranked 4th in Europe and has an 11-1-0 record.

EMMET TO RUN FROM MALIN TO MIZEN

Well known Ballybay native Emmet McAviney is planning to run the length of the country in 10 days and in doing so aims to raise €50,000 for Barnardos. Speaking to the Ballybay News Emmet said, “ I’m taking on the challenge to run from Malin Head, Co. Donegal to Mizen Head, Co. Cork over 10 days between the 28th June and 7th July, following a route which will see me visit many local GAA clubs along the way.

I’m doing it to raise money for Barnardos children’s charity who do incredible work supporting vulnerable children and their families across the country. I know there are thousands of families in Ireland who are struggling. They are suffering. All funds raised with go towards Barnardos’ Family Support services across Ireland. If you can, please help by donating whatever you can. Help make a difference to these families and children”

If you would like to donate to Emmet efforts you can do so at https://www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/EmmettMcAviney

RAS TAILTEANN PASSES THROUGH TOWN

Stage 5 of the Ras Tailteann (Tour of Ireland bike race) passed through Ballybay on Sunday morning last. Over 165 riders from Ireland and Europe passed through the town on their way from Monaghan Town to Blackrock in County Louth. It was a fantastic spectacle for all who turned up to watch it. The last time the race passed through Ballybay was 1969.

SHOE APPEAL SUCCESS

Scoil Eanna student council would like to thank everyone who supported their ‘In Your Shoe Appeal’. The students collected 102 pairs of pre-loved shoes and have them bagged and ready to send to children in African Townships. Take a bow everyone.

BALLYBAY NATIVE FIGHTS IN MADRID

Ballybay born Paddy Rutledge will be fighting at a major MMA event in Madrid on 20th May. Paddy who goes by the nickname, ‘Paddy the Problem’ takes on Oriol Arenas at the Palacio Vistalegne Arena. Fighting out of Spain, Paddy has a 10-1-0 record and is currently ranked 10th amongst European featherweights. Paddy will be hoping to make it 9 wins on a row.

BALLYBAY HERITAGE SOCIETY

The group had their third meeting of the year last week in Birch Court and were treated to a great presentation by Paul Flynn, taking the audience on a walk through Ballybay back in the day when it was a thriving market town. Thanks very much Paul for an impressive display of local knowledge. The group are currently working on this year's national heritage award, which takes place in August under the theme of "living traditions". Anyone who has any knowledge, photos, stories, of any local traditions, or anyone else who would like to get involved is welcome to come to the next meeting on May 17th at 8pm in Birch Court.

CHRISTIAN AID SALE

The Annual Christian Aid cake sale and coffee morning will be held on Saturday 13th May in Hall Street Clones Road from 10am to 1.00 pm. Lots of cakes, home baking and other bargains. Also enjoy fellowship and chat over a cup of coffee or tea. Everyone welcome. All proceeds to Christian Aid.

SUMMER CAMPS

Local gym provider Breakthrough Performance will be hosting 2 summer camps for 7 to 14 year olds in June and August. The first camp is from 10am until 2pm between the 26th and 30th June and the second camp is from 9-30am until 2pm between 8th and 11th August. Further information is available from 086 3764114.

50/50 DRAW

Due to technical difficulties it wasn’t possible to have the 50/50 draw on Monday evening. The draw was held on Tuesday evening which was too late for this week’s publication. The winner can be found on the Pearse Brothers facebook page.

GOLF CLASSIC

The Annual Ballybay Pearse Brothers GAA Golf Classic will be held on the weekend of Saturday 10th June 2023 at Clones Golf Club. This year’s main sponsor for the event is Michael Deery Electrical Services Limited.

The club would like express our thanks to Michael for this support.

The Golf Classic is a very important event in our annual fundraising calendar and allows us to generate much needed funds for the development of our GAA club for all. We hope you will once again see fit to support our Classic this year. Team entries are €200 (meal and goodie bag included). Sponsorship/advertising is €100.

Time Sheets will be in operation from 8am all day on Saturday. To enter a team, please contact either of the following: (Gaby Kerr @ 0879661883 or Brian Carroll @ 0857117215). All Teams and Sponsors will be listed on our Website, Social Media and on a Billboard which will be displayed at Clones Golf Club over the weekend of the Classic. Payment may be made by cash or cheque on the morning of the event. Thank you once again for your continued support to the Ballybay Pearse Brothers GAA club over the years.

CAHANS MEETING HOUSE OPENING

On Saturday 20 May, beginning at 3pm, there will be an 'official opening' of the renovated Meeting house, 26 years from the formation of the Cahans cross community committee whose aim was the conservation and renewal of the historic heritage building, not to be used as a church building but as a resource for the whole community, the Cahans diaspora and anyone or groups interested to use the buildings.

ELECTRICAL DROP OFF DAY

IT'S BACK! Electrical Recycling Drop Off Days are commencing in Lidl Car Park, Monaghan Town on Saturday 20th May - 10am to 4pm. You can drop off any household item with a plug or a battery such as TVs, washing machines, IT equipment, stereos, mobile phones, broken battery-operated toys, cables, chargers and even wireless ear buds.

PAINT AND SIP RETURNS

Paint and Sip returns to Pat O Brien’s on Friday 26th May. It’s a chance to show your creative side and design a canvas masterpiece to take home. Spaces usually fill up quickly so get your name down asap with Catherine at 087935353182.

FAITH MISSION

You're welcome to the Faith Mission monthly Gospel Meeting on Friday 5th May 2023 at 8pm in Rockcorry Presbyterian Church hall, (kindly granted). The speaker is Brian Parker.  Organised by Brian and Hazel Parker Faith Mission Area Workers Cootehill.

50/50 DRAW

The winner of this week’s 50/50  draw was Sean Cleary (ticket number 286). Sean’s win €500. Five extra draws were made for the Bank Holiday. Well done to Brendan Walshe ticket number 94, Bríd Rutledge ticket number 347, Kane Giney ticket number 811, Therese Hamilton ticket number 853 and Patricia Collins ticket number 307, all winners of €100. To enter next week’s draw see the link here: https://member.clubspot.app/club/ballybay/fundraisers or go to the club website or download the Ballybay Pearse Brothers GAA App. Tickets are also available locally in the pubs and shops. 

NATIONAL SPRING CLEAN

As part of National Spring Clean 2023, Tidy Towns Groups around County Monaghan are coming together and are holding litter picks. Ballybay Tidy Towns will be participating in this initiative and will be hosting a Spring Clean on Friday 12th May at 10am. Anyone interested in taking part can meet in the Square at 10am.   More information here: https://monaghan.ie/monaghan-countywide-spring-clean/

SUCCESSFUL SHARON CARAHER RUN

Well done to everyone that turned out for our 2nd annual Sharon Caraher 5k run/walk. Thank you to the Treanor and Caraher families for allowing us to remember Sharon through this event. To all the stewards, car park attendants, tea ladies, families who supplied goodies, cleaners before and after event, Stephen and Marie Therese of Centra for sponsoring the time clock provided by Glaslough Harrier's, Joe our MC, juvenile committee, Enda our caretaker, juveniles and the wider community. THANK YOU for supporting this event. Congratulations to our winners. Eoin Sheridan u16s, John Meehan Men's winner and Carmel Finnan ladies winner.

Bike Week - 13th - 21st May

Bike Week will run from the 13th – 21st May and you will see there are a variety of activities happening right across the County. There really is something for everyone, young and old!

PEDIGREE SALE AT BALLYBAY MART

Ballybay Livestock Mart is hosting a Pedigree sale on Friday 5th May. Alongside this will the usual Friday weanling and suckler sale. Bookings are now open for the sale and a catalogue will be available on the night. Further information is available from 042 9741785.

SCOIL EANNA SOCCER TEAM

Congratulations to the Scoil Eanna boys five a side soccer team who took part in the FAI Primary Schools 5s at Monaghan United ground last week. The lads played four games and remained unbeaten drawing 3-3, 2-2 and winning 5-0 and 7-0. Despite this they lost out on qualifying for the next stage.

TROCAIRE COLLECTION NEARS €8000

A massive thanks is due to everyone who has already returned their Trocaire envelopes. To date the collection has amounted to €7980. If anyone has not returned their envelope, could they do so as soon as possible.

ACTIVE WEEK AT BCS

This week students at Ballybay Central School have been participating in National Active School Week. All week the school have been promoting the benefits of physical activity and the children have been participating in a range of activities. It has been a week of tracksuits and runners and instead of written homework the children were required to complete physical activity.

BALLYBAY SINN FEIN

The Sinn Fein Cumann in Ballybay is to be re-established and the party are inviting new members to get involved. The next meeting will take place on May 8th at 8-30pm. The meeting will be open to new members from Ballybay and surrounding parishes. Further details are available from Rosie at 086 8348294. Those interested in joining Sinn Fein can also do so online at https://join.sinnfein.ie/?%2Fjoin