Corporate Plan 2025-2029 Public Survey

Posted on By jmcanenly

Council Offices

Monaghan County Council is in the process of developing its Corporate Plan 2025-2029. Local Authorities prepare five-year plans to outline their vision, policies, and objectives for the Council’s long-term direction. You can have an input into the plans through consultation. We would like to hear your thoughts on our work across the County and its communities, as well as the key issues you believe should be considered in the next Corporate Plan.

Please click on the following link to take part in the survey: https://consult.monaghancoco.ie/en/content/monaghan-county-council-corporate-plan-public-survey

 

Reimagining Monaghan

Posted on By jmcanenly

Monaghan County Council announces Public Consultation Event ‘Reimagining Monaghan’

Monaghan County Council is pleased to invite members of the public to a consultation event on Saturday 17th at Unit 12, Monaghan Shopping Centre. This event will provide an opportunity for the community to share their views and feedback on what they love about the town, and their ideas for its future including part of the St Louis Convent Site recently acquired by the Council.

As part of our commitment to community engagement and transparency, this consultation is designed to gather input from a broad range of stakeholders, including local residents, business owners, and other interested parties. The insights gathered will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the town through the development of a series of projects and actions identified through the consultation process.

During the event, attendees will have the opportunity to:

– Learn more about the project from John McLaughlin Architects and Monaghan County Council representatives.

– Provide feedback through open discussions, surveys, and Q&A sessions.

– Engage with fellow community members to discuss the potential impacts and benefits of projects

“We value the input of our community and believe that public consultation is essential in ensuring that our initiatives meet the needs and expectations of those we serve,” outlined Sean Conlon, .Cathaoirleach Monaghan Municipal District “We encourage everyone to participate and make their voices heard. It is through a shared collaborative approach from all who have the interests of the town at heart, that optimum outcomes will prevail.”

For those unable to attend, Monaghan County Council will provide alternative ways to contribute feedback, including an online survey and written submissions. Information gathered from this consultation will be carefully reviewed and considered in the final decision-making process.

For more information, please contact Katia Papkovskaia at John Mc Laughlin Architects studio@johnmclaughlin.ie.

Reimagining Monaghan

#YourCouncilDay

Posted on By jmcanenly

Your Council Day Image

Monaghan County Councils role in supporting quality living within County Monaghan is being highlighted, promoted and celebrated to mark Your Council Day 2024, taking place Friday 5th July.

This year, through the national event, Ireland’s 31 county and city councils will promote the very positive impact local authorities have on people’s quality of life.

An extensive array of local authority services are used by people on a day-to-day basis which support quality living. These include, but are not limited to, parks, leisure, sports, library, arts, heritage and community services. Councils also lead in protecting our living environments, including street cleaning, litter control, monitoring of waterways, urban and village renewal schemes, maintenance of our roads and footpaths.

Staff in local authorities are embedded within communities, enabling people on an individual and collective basis to enjoy life in communities where they live, work and visit.

Across social media, #YourCouncilDay will highlight the role of local authorities in promoting quality living and the work of committed and passionate staff in councils across the country to support such.

On Your Council Day, local authorities will be posting online using #YourCouncilDay / #DoLásaChomhairle to profile services and amenities and to introduce people to staff.

Major Projects Announced for Carrickmacross-Castleblayney MD

Posted on By jmcanenly
Workhouse Project Team Carrickmacross Swimming Pool Feasibility Project Team

Further good news story for the county and in particular the Carrickmacross-Castleblayney Municipal District as Monaghan County Council signs contracts for the Carrickmacross Workhouse Community, Tourism & Arts Hub, Phase 1 project and the carrying out of a Feasibility Study and Strategic Assessment for the provision of a Swimming Pool and Leisure Complex in Carrickmacross Town.

Building on Monday’s announcement of an €11 million grant allocation towards the redevelopment of the historic Market House in Castleblayney, Tuesday evening last, in the appropriate surrounds of the restored front Workhouse building, provided further cause for optimism for the wider south Monaghan area with the signing of the contracts for the Carrickmacross Workhouse Community, Tourism & Arts Hub, Phase 1 project and the Feasibility Study and Strategic Assessment for the provision of a Swimming Pool and Leisure Complex in Carrickmacross Town.

Having secured a “Category 2” (project development) grant allocation of €288,608.00, under the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund, Monaghan County Council was pleased to award the contract for the development of a construction-ready masterplan for the Carrickmacross Workhouse site to Cooney Architects Limited.

Monaghan County Council in partnership with Farney Community Development Group (FCDG) plan to restore in full the Carrickmacross Workhouse site and develop a new multipurpose Community Hub to cement its future as a focal point and centre for social, community and arts services in Carrickmacross town and the South Monaghan area. The original Workhouse building was leased by FCDG from private developers between 2003 to 2019. During that time, and since, FCDG has secured investment of in excess of €2.2 million to restore the front building and manage the 28 no. community and social services currently based there.

The site was acquired by Monaghan County Council in 2019, to secure the future of the existing community services delivered there, develop its tourism potential and plan for the future development of a multi-sectored, community and arts hub for the south Monaghan area. The unique partnership between Farney Community Development Group and Monaghan County Council enhances citizen engagement and participation in civic activities. This is evidenced by the high level of usage of the compromised facilities that exist at present. The leadership displayed by FCDG in leasing the property in 2003 and resilience in its investment over the subsequent years, despite unsecure tenancy, is acknowledged by Monaghan County Council and supported in its decision to purchase the freehold ownership in 2019.

The project provides a holistic, planned approach to the economic and social development of the town and its hinterland, building on the investment and partnership between the Council and the community. The development of an overall plan to guide the complete restoration and redevelopment of the derelict buildings and 6-acre site for community use will transform the area and provide a sustainable template for development into the future.

The contract-signing event also marked a red-letter day for amenity provision in Carrickmacross Town and its hinterland. The absence of a swimming pool has been a long-cited gap in leisure provision in the area, and Tuesday’s formal appointment of consultancy firm S3 Solutions, to progress a feasibility study and strategic assessment for the provision of a swimming pool and leisure complex in Carrickmacross Town may transpire to be the opening gambit in addressing this deficit. Over a 20-week performance period, the Consultants will evaluate the technical and economic feasibility of providing a swimming pool and leisure complex in the county’s second largest and fastest growing town that would serve the town and the wider South Monaghan community.

It is expected that S3 Solutions will make a final recommendation on the feasibility of the proposed project to Monaghan County Council in September 2024. The information and data provided in the Feasibility Study & Strategic Assessment Report will allow the Council to make an informed and reasoned decision on whether to advance the proposed project to the next stage in the project lifecycle, preliminary business case development.

Bank Holiday Water Safety Alert

Posted on By jmcanenly

Minimize the risks with advice from Coast Guard, Water Safety Ireland & RNLI

The Coast Guard, Water Safety Ireland & the RNLI have issued advice to help keep people safe at Ireland’s waterways over the
June bank holiday weekend.

Water based activities increase at this time of year, as do the number of incidents in which people get into difficulty. Minimize the risks with the following advice for a safe enjoyable bank holiday weekend.

How to enjoy water-based activities safely:
• Check the forecast for your local area, including tide times and sea conditions for coastal activities.
• Always carry a means of calling for help and keep it within reach.
• Water temperatures are still cold. Acclimatise by getting in slowly, swim within your depth and avoid staying in the
water for extended periods. Swimmers should be aware of rip currents and if caught in one should swim parallel to
shore and then back to land.
• Swim with others, never alone, in recognised, traditionally safe bathing areas. Lifeguarded waterways are listed at
https://watersafety.ie/lifeguards/.
• Supervise children at all times near water and never use inflatable toys in open water as currents and breezes can
cause persons to be swept out to sea, endangering those onboard or others trying to assist.
• If you find yourself struggling in the water unexpectedly remember Float to Live. The best way to float is to tilt your
head back with your ears submerged. Try to relax and breathe normally. You can gently move your hands to help you
stay afloat if you need to. Spread your arms and legs out to improve stability. Once your breathing is under control,
call for help or swim to safety.
• Stranding is a risk when low tides expose areas of the coastline for walkers to explore sandbanks. Watch out for
incoming tides, local signage, and always carry a fully charged mobile phone.
• Wear a Personal Flotation Device when paddleboarding, kayaking or boating, or when angling from shore.
• Avoid alcohol as it impairs judgment, balance and coordination – all essential for swimming and boating and avoiding
hazards in the water.

If you see somebody in trouble on the water or along the coast or if you suspect that they are in trouble, dial 112 or use Marine
VHF channel 16 and ask for the Coast Guard

Heritage Week Event Grant Scheme 2024

Posted on By jmcanenly

National Heritage Week banner

Call for applications

National Heritage Week, an initiative by the Heritage Council, celebrates all things heritage. It brings together communities, families, organisations, cultural institutions, academics and enthusiasts, to build awareness about the value of heritage and support its conservation. The theme for National Heritage Week 2024 is “Connections, Routes and Networks”.

Monaghan County Council Heritage Office are offering grant assistance to organisers to hold events that meet the objectives of National Heritage Week https://www.heritageweek.ie/

Who can apply:

This grant scheme is open to individuals/community groups and not for profit organisations, heritage and biodiversity groups, venues and societies.

All groups in receipt of funding from Monaghan County Council must be members of Monaghan PPN.

What Funding is available:

The level of grant assistance for any one event will range from €100 to €1000.

To be eligible for funding projects/events must:

  • take place in County Monaghan and celebrate an element of Monaghan’s heritage.
  • be organised by an individual/community/voluntary group based in Monaghan.
  • proposed event must be run during heritage week 17th – 25th August 2024.

How to apply:

Please visit https://monaghan.ie/heritage/heritage-grants/ for application form and guidance. Any queries can also be sent to the Heritage Office email heritage@monaghancoco.ie .

  • The closing date for applications is 4pm on Friday 14th June 2024.

Monaghan County Council hosted successful events in Monaghan and Castleblayney to celebrate Africa Day 2024

Posted on By jmcanenly

Africa Day takes place annually across the globe on May 25th. In Ireland people came together to enjoy a celebration of the diversity of African culture and heritage.

Africa Day has a strong tradition of being celebrated in Monaghan with events taking place this year in both Monaghan and Castleblayney. These local events celebrated the contribution which African people have made to their communities in Monaghan, and to wider Irish society. Africa Day celebrations are organised by Irish Aid at the Department of Foreign Affairs in partnership with African embassies in Ireland and local authorities around the country.

The first event in Monaghan,  titled “Strength in Diversity “, was held on Thursday 23rd May at the Íontas Centre in Castleblayney. The event, which was organised by LINC Society Ltd, had an array of entertainment on offer including African Dance, henna design making workshop, a Cultural Exhibition and African food.

The second event to mark Africa Day 2024 took place on Saturday 25th May at Teach na nDaoine Family Resource Centre. An array of entertainment was on offer including African music, dance, food and traditional dress. The event was attended by members of the African community from throughout Monaghan as well as a large number of local residents.

Commenting, Cathaoirleach of Monaghan County Council Cllr. David Maxwell, said: “I am delighted that Monaghan has celebrated Africa Day once again as it provides an opportunity to acknowledge our diverse and vibrant African communities who enrich our communities and make a valuable contribution to Irish society. I would like to commend both Monaghan County Council and Irish Aid for their role in this worthy initiative.

Finally, I would like to acknowledge the contribution of the two organisers, LINC Society Ltd. and Teach na Daoine who continue to do so much to celebrate all that is great about African cultures and traditions in Monaghan”.

Sean Fleming, Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, said:

“Africa Day is an important event to celebrate Ireland’s growing links with the continent of Africa, and to showcase African culture, music, dance and much more. Ireland has growing trade, political and cultural links across the continent of Africa. Africa Day is an opportunity to promote those links and learn more about the diversity and vibrancy of African cultures. Events have been taking place nationwide.”

For more information visit:

For more information visit www.AfricaDay.ie and Monaghan County Council’s Facebook and Twitter pages.

Monaghans Africa Day

Posted on By jmcanenly

Africa Day 2024

Monaghan County Council to host events in Monaghan and Castleblayney to celebrate Africa Day 2024

Monaghan County Council has announced its plans for Africa Day 2024, which will include events in Castleblayney and Monaghan to celebrate the occasion.

Africa Day celebrates the vibrancy, diversity and potential of the continent of Africa. Events will be held in every county in Ireland to mark the day that celebrates Ireland’s growing links with Africa. Africa Day celebrations are organised by Irish Aid at the Department of Foreign Affairs in partnership with African embassies in Ireland and local authorities around the country.

Africa Day has a strong tradition of being celebrated in Monaghan, with 2024 seeing two large events being organised in County Monaghan. An event titled “Strength in Diversity “ will be held on Thursday 23rd May from 6pm to 9pm at the Íontas Centre in Castleblayney. The event, which is being organised by LINC Society Ltd, will have an array of entertainment on offer including African Dance, henna design making workshop, a Cultural Exhibition and African food.

The second event to mark Africa Day 2023 will take place on Saturday 25th May at Teach na nDaoine Family Resource Centre, with activities commencing at 2pm. The event will include African music, dance, food and traditional dress.

Commenting, Cathaoirleach of Monaghan County Council Cllr. David Maxwell, said: “I am delighted that Monaghan is celebrating Africa Day once again. Africa Day showcases the range of positive relationships that exist between Ireland and Africa and the importance of our strong and effective partnerships. African people have made a hugely positive impact on their communities and on Irish society. I would like to commend both Monaghan County Council and Irish Aid for their role in this worthy initiative.

I would also encourage people to come along to the events in Castleblayney on May 23rd and in Monaghan on May 25th to join in the celebrations. Finally, I would like to acknowledge the contribution of the two organisers, LINC Society Ltd. and Teach na Daoine who continue to do so much to celebrate all that is great about African cultures and traditions in Monaghan”.

This year will see Ireland’s largest-ever Africa Day programme, with events being held nationwide, with the largest event being planned at the Royal Hospital in Kilmainham, Dublin.

Minister for International Development and Diaspora, Sean Fleming TD, said: “I am delighted to launch the programme for Africa Day 2024. Ireland has growing trade, political and cultural links across the continent of Africa. Africa Day is an opportunity to promote those links and learn more about the diversity and vibrancy of African cultures. The Department of Foreign Affairs is delighted to work with local authorities around Ireland, including Monaghan,  on a nationwide programme of events.

For more information visit www.AfricaDay.ie and Monaghan County Council’s Facebook and Twitter pages.

Contact: Barry Eaton, Monaghan County Council. Tel: 086 3134557.

Increased Cost of Business grant – deadline extended to 29th May 2024

Posted on By jmcanenly

LAST CHANCE TO REGISTER – Increased Cost of Business (ICOB) has re-opened with a closing date of 29th May, 2024

  • If you are in rate arrears engage with your Local Authority as you may be eligible for the grant
  • If you do not have your ID or PIN number contact your Local Authority
  • Retail and Hospitality Businesses are now entitled to a second payment for approved businesses and a double payment for new registrations?

Overview

As part of Budget 2024, the government signed off on a package of €257 million for the Increased Cost of Business (ICOB) grant as a vital measure for small and medium businesses. Local authorities, funded through the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (DETE), will manage the rollout of the grant to qualifying businesses.

Local authorities have written to rate payers with details of registration.

If you do not have your ID and PIN number you should contact your rates section in your Local Authority as soon as possible

Eligibility

Eligible businesses will receive a once-off grant payment as a contribution towards the rising costs faced by businesses. It is not a Commercial Rates waiver and businesses should continue to pay their Commercial Rates bill as normal.

The grant is based on the value of the Commercial Rates bill received by an eligible business in 2023.

For qualifying businesses with a 2023 Commercial Rate bill of less than €10,000, the ICOB grant will be paid at a rate of 50% of the business’s Commercial Rate bill for 2023.

For qualifying businesses with a 2023 Commercial Rate bill of between €10,000 and €30,000, the ICOB grant will be €5,000.

Businesses with a 2023 Commercial Rates bill greater than €30,000 are not eligible to receive an ICOB grant.

Businesses in the Retail and Hospitality Sectors are entitled to a second payment for approved businesses and a double payment for new registrations.

Registration 

The closing date is now 29th May 2024, REGISTER NOW on ICOB.ie.

For more information and registration visit icob.ie.

  1. Pages:
  3. 1
  4. 2
  5. 3