World Suicide Prevention Day – 10th September – Resources available

This year,  HSE have partnered with Pieta and Cavan Library to organise an Information workshop for parents/concerned adults on Understanding Suicide and Self-harm. This is taking place on Tuesday 12th September from 6 – 7.30 pm in Johnston Central Library, Farnham Street, Cavan.

Places are limited and need to be booked in advance through eventbrite:

https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/autumn-series-information-workshop-understanding-suicide-self-harm-tickets-700140819037?aff=oddtdtcreator

We also have a number of free suicide prevention awareness training programmes scheduled during September and October across Cavan and Monaghan. This includes the following courses:

  • Suicide Bereavement Training for Professionals, Monday 11th September, Errigal Hotel, Cootehill, 9 am – 5 pm; direct link to book a place:

https://bookwhen.com/suicidepreventiontrainingcho1/e/ev-sva9-20230911090000

 

  • safeTALK Training on Thursday 14th September in the Iontas Centre, Castleblayney from 9.30 – 1 pm; click here to book a place:

https://bookwhen.com/suicidepreventiontrainingcho1/e/ev-sjkm-20230914093000

 

  • Understanding self-harm training, Friday 6th October, 9 am – 4 pm in the Iontas Centre, Castleblayney; click here to book a place:

https://bookwhen.com/suicidepreventiontrainingcho1/e/ev-sp08-20231006090000

  • safeTALK Training on Friday 6th October, Hub Muinchille, Cootehill, 9.30 am – 1 pm; click here to book a place:

https://bookwhen.com/suicidepreventiontrainingcho1/e/ev-st4s-20231006093000

  • ASIST Training, Thursday 12th and Friday 13th October, Iontas Centre, Castleblayney, 9 am – 5 pm; click here to book a place:

https://bookwhen.com/suicidepreventiontrainingcho1/e/ev-s3qb-20231012090000

Key messages for World Suicide Prevention Day

The theme of World Suicide Prevention Day on 10th September 2022 is “Creating Hope through action”. It is a time when we can spread a message of hope to others. Even though suicide is a very complex issue, we can always look out for others who might be experiencing suicidal thoughts, and provide support. This helps to create a more caring society where those who need to, feel more comfortable in seeking help.

The following messages are some examples of actions that can help to create hope this World Suicide Prevention Day.

“REACH IN”

Reach in to someone you know who might be having difficulties. Find a comfortable space and time to sit and be present with them. Use open questions and tell them you care about them. You don’t need to have all the answers. If they share things with you, listen – stay calm, be patient and kind. Remember that bringing up the topic of suicide with someone will not make suicide more likely. It can be really helpful for a person just to have a safe space to open up, know that they are heard and that they are not alone at a difficult time.

Tips on being a good listener, HSE yourmentahealth.ie

Supporting someone who might be suicidal, HSE yourmentalhealth.ie

“REACH OUT”

If you are feeling particularly low, sad or hopeless, always remember that sharing things with someone else will help. Reaching out to talk with someone – someone close or even a support organisation – might initially feel frightening. Even if you can’t find the right words, when you take that first step and start to share and talk about what’s going on for you, things can become clearer. The right words will come, and you will start to feel more hopeful.

Talk about how you feel, HSE yourmentalhealth.ie

“BE THE LIGHT”

Connect with a support or community organisation. Volunteer, help spread their messages and become involved in activities that promote positive mental health and wellbeing or suicide prevention in your community. Always think about the person and what they might be going through when talking about suicide. Remain compassionate and be respectful of the lives that have been lost, and others who have been bereaved. Remember that people can and do get through times of crisis, and that a positive message of recovery, can be protective and hopeful for others to hear.

What to say to someone going through a tough time, HSE yourmentalhealth.ie

‘WORDS MATTER’

The topic of suicide should always be approached with care and compassion. It is important to use sensitive and non-stigmatising language when engaging in a conversation, talking or writing about suicide. Using language and words that are helpful and respectful, will encourage open and safe conversations about suicide, and its prevention. They can help to create environments that are free of stigma, judgment or prejudice.

Always avoid using the term ‘commit suicide’ –this can imply a sin, criminal offence or act, and therefore can be stigmatising –of the person who has died, or of people who have been bereaved. In general, use neutral and simple terms such as ‘died by suicide’, ‘die by suicide’ or ‘death by suicide’.

More tips on language and suicide from the HSE National Office for Suicide Prevention (NOSP)

 

“INCREASE YOUR AWARENESS”

If someone tells you that they are having thoughts of suicide, stay calm and don’t be afraid. There are always helpful things you can do and there are training programmes that can help prepare you. Free suicide prevention and awareness programmes are available from the HSE. These can build your confidence, help you recognise people who might be at risk of suicide, ask them about suicide, and connect them with helpful supports and services. For example:

  • LivingWorks Start, a 90 minute online programme
  • safeTALK, a half day face-to-face programme

Visit www.nosp.ie/training for more information.

“KNOW WHERE TO TURN”

Get to know what mental health supports and services are available, and tell more people about them. Speak with a GP about what might be available locally. Tell your family, your friends, your colleagues – you never know when someone might need them. Many are open 24/7 and you can make contact in different ways, for example:

  • on the phone – Samaritans, or Freephone 116 123
  • by text message – Text about it, text HELLO to 50808, visit wwww.textaboutit.ie
  • online – MyMind,
  • face-to-face – Pieta,or Freephone 1800 247 247.

You can also call the HSE YourMentalHealth Information Line, anytime day or night, for information on what other services and supports are available near you – Freephone 1800 111 888 .

Remember that people can and do get through times of crisis, and that a positive message of recovery, can be protective and hopeful for others to hear.

If you, or someone you know is at immediate risk of harm, go to or call the emergency department of your local general hospital. You can also contact emergency services on 112 or 999 anytime, day or night.

 

Public Notice – Proposed Variation 5 of Monaghan County Development Plan 2019-2025

Monaghan County Council proposes to make Variation No.5 to the Monaghan County Development Plan 2019-2025 comprising of a change of zoning of certain lands in Monaghan, Carrickmacross, Castleblayney, Clones, Scotstown and Ballinode. Further information including SEA and AA screening determinations can be obtained at the Council’s website: https://monaghan.ie/planning/

Planning Notice – Corrybrannan Playground, Corrybrannan, Ballybay, Co. Monaghan

Monaghan County Council have submitted a Part 8 Planning Application in accordance with the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended)

Monaghan County Council hereby gives notice that it proposes to carry out development at:

Corrybrannan Playground, Corrybrannan, Ballybay, Co. Monaghan

The proposed development will consist of:

Upgrade of the existing Corrybrannan Playground, to include the removal of existing play equipment and surfacing, installation of a Multi-Use-Games-Area, installation of the newly designed Accessible Playground and all ancillary works in the townland of Corrybrannan, Ballybay, Co. Monaghan.

This application is now open for submissions and can be made by clicking on the link below

https://planning.localgov.ie/en/part-8/application/3fa298da-3c1a-11ee-9796-00505688841d

COMHAIRLE CHONTAE MHUINEACHAIN MONAGHAN COUNTY COUNCIL – Development of Corrybrannan Playground, Corrybrannan, Ballybay, Co. Monaghan

Part XI Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended)

Part 8, Article 81 Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended)

Monaghan County Council hereby gives notice that it proposes to carry out development at

Corrybrannan Playground, Corrybrannan, Ballybay, Co. Monaghan

The proposed development will consist of:

Upgrade of the existing Corrybrannan Playground, to include the removal of existing play equipment and surfacing, installation of a Multi-Use-Games-Area, installation of the newly designed Accessible Playground and all ancillary works in the townland of Corrybrannan, Ballybay, Co. Monaghan.

In accordance with Article 81(2)(ca) and 120(1B)(b)(i) of the above-mentioned regulations, Monaghan County Council, as the competent authority, has concluded from a Screening Determination, which is based on an examination of the nature, size and location of the proposed development, that there is no real likelihood of significant effects on the environment arising from the proposed development, and as such has determined that an Environmental Impact Assessment is not required. This Screening Determination is available for inspection, and at any time before the expiration of 4 weeks from the date of publication of this notice, any person may apply to An Bord Pleanála for a screening determination as to whether the proposed development would be likely to have significant effects on the environment.

In accordance with Article 250(1)(ca) of the above-mentioned regulations, Monaghan County Council, as the competent authority, has concluded from a Screening Determination, which is based on an assessment of best scientific knowledge, that the proposed development, either individually or in combination with other plans or projects, is not likely to have a significant effect on a European site,

and as such has determined that an Appropriate Assessment is not required. This Screening Determination is available for inspection, and any person may apply to An Bord Pleanála for a screening determination as to whether the proposed development would be likely to have significant effect on a European site.

Plans and particulars of the proposed development may be inspected or purchased, at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy during office hours at the offices of Monaghan County Council, Planning Section, No.1 Dublin Street, Monaghan H18 X982 until 5pm on 22nd of September 2023.

The plans and particulars of the proposed development may also be inspected online at https://www.monaghan.ie by searching under Monaghan County Council and entering the address of the development.

Submissions or observations with respect to the proposed development, dealing with proper planning and sustainable development of the area in which the development will be situated may be made in writing to Monaghan County Council, Planning Section, No.1 Dublin Street, Monaghan H18 X982 before 5pm on 6th of October 2023.

Signed:

Kevin West

A/Director of Services

Monaghan County Council

Dated 23rd August 2023

National Heritage Week 2023 is happening now! Events across Monaghan

             

Heritage Week is running from 12th – 20th August 2023

Learn more about the events in #Monaghan here: https://www.heritageweek.ie/event-listings

To book or enquire about an event contact: 04730500 / smcquaid@monaghancoco.ie

                                       

               

#LiveWorkVisitMonaghan #HeritageWeek

Public Consultation – Draft Parking Control (Pay Parking) & Car Park Bye Laws 2023

Notice is hereby given that the Municipal District of Monaghan proposes amendments to the Parking Control (Pay Parking) & Car Park Bye Laws 2023.

Draft Parking Control (Pay Parking) & Car Park Bye Laws 2023 can be viewed at the following locations;

  1. The Municipal District of Monaghan Office, The Glen, Monaghan
  2. The Planning Office, Dublin Street, Monaghan
  3. Monaghan Town Library, North Road, Monaghan
  4. Online at Monaghan.ie/news

The Council invites submissions from members of the public in respect of these Draft Bye Laws. Submissions in writing can be forwarded to the Monaghan Municipal District, Council Offices, The Glen, Monaghan or emailed to monaghan@monaghancoco.ie by Thursday 10th August 2023.

View below:

PARKING CONTROL (PAY PARKING) & CAR PARKS BYE-LAWS 2023

Town and Village Renewal Scheme 2023 – Applications are open now!

The Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, has announced the Town and Village Renewal Scheme (TVRS) 2023 to support small to medium capital projects which enhance the environment of town or village centres. Grant funding for projects will range from €20,000 to €500,000.

Following the launch of Our Rural Future, and subsequently the Town Centre First Policy, there has been some amendments to the Town and Village Renewal Scheme. Our Rural Future will see increased investment out to 2025 in remote working infrastructure to provide an opportunity for people to continue to live in rural communities while following their career ambitions.

The 2023 Scheme is designed to support the revitalisation of rural Ireland through a renewed focus on town centre regeneration and enhancing economic and social vibrancy in line with the Town Centre First policy.

The 2023 Scheme will focus on objectives such as:

  • Town Regeneration projects
  • Enhancing our streetscapes
  • Green spaces / recreational amenities in town or village centres
  • Refurbishment of existing community centres
  • A new option to allow local authorities to acquire plots of land to enable development of town regeneration, such as town parks, plazas, etc.
  • Bringing vacant and derelict buildings/ back into use as multi-purpose or community spaces
  • Projects to support town or village centre markets, e.g. farmers markets or artisan markets.
  • Town/village centre plaza development

 

The 2023 scheme will be targeted at three categories of Towns/Villages as follows:

  • Category 1: Towns and villages with a population of up to 5,000 people.
  • Category 2: Towns with a population of 5,001 to 10,000 people.
  • Category 3: Larger towns with a population of up to 15,000 people may be eligible where the application is of a high quality and outlines a strong need for the investment, good value for money        and positive outcomes that will have a substantial impact on the town.

Grant Levels

For the 2023 Scheme, the minimum grant which is available is €20,000.

The maximum level of grant funding available is €500,000 in respect of one application from each Local Authority.

A maximum of €250,000 will apply in respect of 4 applications.

1 application must be in respect of Towns/Villages that have not previously received funding under the Standard Town & Village Renewal Scheme in the last 3 years.

As in previous years, applications will be assessed on a competitive basis.

Please ensure that you have fully completed the application form before submitting.

All Expressions of Interest should be received no later than 5.00 p.m. on Monday 28th August 2023 by email to townandvillage@monaghancoco.ie

Late Expression of Interest’s will not be considered after the closing date.

Application form and Scheme outline located here: https://monaghan.ie/communitydevelopment/2023/07/26/town-and-village-renewal-scheme-2023-applications-are-open-now/

Safety officers gear up for Amber Thursday

Fire, road, and water safety officers across Ireland are joining forces for ‘Amber Thursday’ to promote fire, road, and water safety over the August bank holiday weekend.

Dermot Brannigan, Chief Fire Officer with Monaghan County Council is encouraging the public to be aware of the risks from fires. “This time of year, can be a busy period for fire fighters so everyone should be aware of how quickly a fire can spread and a small incident can escalate into a larger one if not managed safely. I’m encouraging members of the public to enjoy the Bank Holiday weekend but to bear in mind the potential of fire related incidents. Keep children away from fires and have a bucket of water or sand nearby for emergencies. Never light a barbeque or a campfire in parks, woodland areas or in areas close to vegetation or trees and be mindful not to discard any cigarette butts on the ground.”

Road Safety Officer with Monaghan County Council, Adrian O’Sullivan, stressed the importance for road users to be cautious and courteous towards one another. “It’s imperative that motorists do not drive while under the influence of intoxicants such as  alcohol or illegal drugs and that all passengers are wearing a seatbelt or appropriate seat restraint.  Before setting off on a long journey, ensure your vehicle is roadworthy, plan your journey, drive within the posted speed limits, and take regular breaks to avoid driver fatigue.”

Gearóid McCarthy, Water Safety Development Officer with Monaghan County Council reminds everyone to be aware and not to be lulled into a false sense of security around water.  “As Monaghan is a landlocked county, some people may choose to swim in one of Monaghan’s many lakes and rivers particularly during any warm spells of weather. However, these can pose their own dangers as they may contain hidden obstacles that can trap or make it more difficult to move around.  Cold water in lakes can often be much deeper and colder beneath the surface than you may expect”.

“Most water related tragedies in Ireland occur in inland waterways. Reservoirs are not appropriate for swimming due to the risk of deep and fast-flowing waters, changing water levels and uneven ground” added the Water Safety Development Officer.

Amber Thursday is supported by Local Authorities, the Chief Fire Officers Association, and Water Safety Ireland. Further information can be found at amberthursday.ie.

Pictured (L-R):

Dermot Brannigan – Chief Fire Officer, Adrian O’Sullivan – Road Safety Officer, Niall Nolan – Station Officer, Clones fire Station and Siobhan McKenna – Senior Assistant Chief Fire Officer