Press Releases

Monaghan County Council has today adopted a €94m budget package that supports capital and economic investment into the future, provides for high quality public services and sustainable development of our businesses and communities. This is the largest budget in the history of Monaghan County Council and represents a 5% increase compared to budget 2024. The budget is aligned to our Corporate Plan and provides for the services and projects that aims to meet the needs of the people of County Monaghan, as well as additional staff for new and ongoing services and extra funding for our Municipal Districts.

 

Monaghan County Council, Cathaoirleach Cathy Bennett said:

“I am delighted to approve this budget as it signals Monaghan County Council’s plans for economic growth, it’s increase in local employment and support for businesses and communities throughout the county.”

 

Monaghan County Council, Chief Executive Robert Burns said:

“The Budget has been prepared with the objective of funding the continuation of existing and new, high-quality public services, maintaining our roads, meeting our climate action objectives, supporting social, cultural, economic and tourism development and supporting our business communities. I believe this budget demonstrates, as a Council, that we are focused on prudent financial management and investment in the future development of Co. Monaghan.”

SIRO AND VODAFONE ANNOUNCED AS CONNECTIVITY PARTNERS FOR CARRICKMACROSS C:TEK II ENTERPRISE HUB

MONAGHAN’S NEWEST ENTERPRISE HUB, C:TEK II, JOINS THE SIRO-VODAFONE GIGABIT HUB INITIATIVE

SIRO and Vodafone have been announced as connectivity partners for Monaghan’s newest enterprise hub, C:TEK II. The Carrickmacross enterprise hub was officially opened earlier this month by Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys T.D., with representatives from Monaghan County Council, Enterprising Monaghan, elected representatives and other key stakeholders all in attendance.

The C:TEK II Hub has now also joined the Gigabit Hub Initiative. The Initiative is a partnership between SIRO and Vodafone, which brings Gigabit Fibre Connectivity to remote working and digital hubs across Ireland. C:TEK II is joining a host of other successful Hubs across Ireland, such as Dundalk’s Creative Spark, Galway’s PorterShed and Skibbereen Ludgate Hub which have already benefitted from the Initiative. C:TEK II is the 24^th Hub to join the Initiative.

The C:TEK II Hub can now provide businesses and tenants with high-speed, high-quality fibre connectivity, supported by SIRO’s 100% fibre network, which can provide speeds of up to 25 Gigabits,  future proofing the service for decades to come. This means that as the bandwidth and speed needs of Monaghan businesses grow in the years to come the C:TEK II Hub can continue to keep pace with their needs.

C:Tek II is already proving hugely popular with the Carrickmacross and wider Monaghan business community, with 11 tenants already availing of the 17 units onsite. The new hub compliments the existing C:Tek I building located next door, which has been open for several years. The new Hub is already supporting 50 jobs. Businesses using the Hub include a home care provider, an accountancy firm, an executive car rental company and physical therapist, among others. Overall, the 1,450-square-meter facility supports regional talent retention, provides a work base for former commuters, and attracts start-ups from Monaghan and surrounding counties.

Offering a range of office options, from hot desks to private spaces, C:Tek II is designed to meet the needs of various users, from solo entrepreneurs to established enterprises. Its extensive facilities, including ample parking and kitchen spaces, allowing tenants to work in a flexible, professional environment close to home. As C: Tek II continues to grow, it plans to host community events and offer further professional development opportunities, solidifying its role as a cornerstone for local business success and innovation.

Robert Burns, CEO of Monaghan County Council stated:

“Supporting innovation and driving economic growth in the region are top priorities for Monaghan County Council. We are confident that the partnership between SIRO and Vodafone will significantly advance these goals. The Gigabit Hub Initiative, with its provision of high-speed connectivity, will foster the development of new businesses in the Carrickmacross area and promote sustainable job creation throughout the region”.

John Keaney, SIRO Chief Executive Officer said:

“We’re pleased to partner with Monaghan County Council to bring Gigabit connectivity to C:TEK II, a vital addition to Carrickmacross that supports local business growth and job creation. Through the Gigabit Hub Initiative, we are committed to empowering business communities across Ireland by providing the high-speed, reliable infrastructure they need to innovate, attract talent, and expand into new markets. C:Tek II is an excellent example of how world-class connectivity can drive regional economic growth, and we look forward to seeing the impact it will have on the local community.”

Amanda Nelson, Vodafone Ireland CEO commented: “Vodafone is pleased to partner with Enterprising Monaghan to provide 100% fibre broadband at their new Carrickmacross facility as part of our Gigabit Hub Initiative. This high-speed connectivity will serve as an asset for the facility’s thriving community of businesses, start-ups, and remote professionals, enabling them with the digital infrastructure essential for growth and success, both locally and beyond.”

Find out more about C: Tek I & II at www.enterprisingmonaghan.ie

Monaghan County Council has announced that 1,161 businesses in the county have received €3,165,021.46 in grant funding under the Government’s Increased Cost of Business scheme.

The ICOB grant was designed by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment to help SME’s with the increased costs associated with running a business and was administered by the Local Authorities.

Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Peter Burke said:

“I was delighted to get Government approval for this important Scheme to help small and medium enterprises who are the backbone of our economy. I have spoken to dozens of businesses around the country who availed of the €240m paid out so far and we will continue to work with and support them.

“I would also like to acknowledge the work of the local authorities across the country and thank all the staff involved.  They have contributed hugely to the success of the Scheme.”

Monaghan County Council Chief Executive Officer Robert Burns said:

“I am delighted that we in Monaghan County Council have been able to facilitate the payment of the ICOB grant to local small and medium enterprises businesses across the county.  I am also particularly proud that the MyCoCo build-to-share software platform developed by Monaghan County Council was instrumental in the effective and efficient administration and payment of the grant nationally.”

A total of €257 million was made available under the Scheme.

 

Monaghan County Council and Monaghan Sports Partnership Welcome

Swim Ireland Pop-Up Pool to Carrickmacross

Monaghan County Council, Monaghan Local Sports Partnership and Swim Ireland are delighted to announce the arrival of a Pop-Up Pool in Carrickmacross Town. Located just 400m off the Oriel Road in Carrickmacross, adjacent to the Carrick Aces Athletic Club (Eircode – A81 DX50), the facility will be operational from the 16^th of September 2024 through to Spring 2025. “The Pool that comes to the People” is 12m by 3.4m with the water heated to a toasty 30 degrees. Housed in a hard-sided marquee, this accessible pool is the ideal place to learn to swim, hone your skills or just remember how great it feels to block out the world and dip your head in the water!

Swim Ireland are working closely with Monaghan Local Sports Partnership on delivering  a number of community-based pool programmes. The programmes are aimed at everyone from children, teens, older adults, and people with disabilities, to minority groups. Organisers are currently engaging with local schools and community groups, with bookings also now open for learn to swim sessions. Private sessions for events such as birthday parties are also available. A full breakdown of all that is on offer and details on booking arrangements is available on the Swim Ireland website at https://swimireland.ie/get-swimming/pop-up-pool/carrickmacross/

Cathaoirleach of Carrickmacross-Castleblayney Municipal District, Cllr. PJ O’Hanlon welcomed the arrival of the pop-up pool saying “this is another good news story for the people of south Monaghan and surrounding areas. I wholeheartedly welcome this amenity to the town of Carrickmacross and encourage people of all ages and abilities to avail of it use over the coming months. We are all aware of the demand for a swimming pool in Carrickmacross Town and that there is a feasibility study currently underway. The arrival of the pop-up pool recognises this fact and hopefully it is a positive indicator for what is to come in the future. I want to thank all involved for their hard work and effort in bringing the pop-up pool to Carrickmacross – Municipal District staff, the staff from Monaghan Sports Partnership and Swim Ireland. Finally, I want to pay particular mention to our Chief Executive, Mr. Robert Burns, without whom this project would not have happened,”

In welcoming the facility, Monaghan County Council Chief Executive, Mr. Robert Burns said “the arrival of the pop-up pool in Carrickmacross reinforces Monaghan County Council’s commitment to the development of sporting and amenity facilities to support the health and wellbeing of our communities. The pop-up pool presents an opportunity to learn to swim, which is such an important life skill, alongside the health and social benefits of participating in swimming. In a wider context, the arrival of the pop-up pool is particularly timely in the context of the feasibility study currently underway for the provision of a swimming pool and leisure complex in Carrickmacross Town, and the experience gained from operating the pop-up pool will help inform this assessment. The Chief Executive concluded by commending the hard work and partnership approach adopted by Carrickmacross-Castleblayney Municipal District, Monaghan Sports Partnership and Swim Ireland in delivering this project.”

Swim Ireland CEO, Ms. Sarah Keane commented “We are delighted to work with Monaghan County Council and Monaghan Sports Partnership to bring a Pop-Up Pool to Carrickmacross. Swimming is a life-skill, and one that it is vital for every child. The Pop-Up Pool is a fantastic opportunity to teach children and adults in the area to swim. We look forward to welcoming the people of Carrickmacross and surrounding areas, of all ages and abilities, to experience the pool and take advantage of the opportunities available.”

MONAGHAN COUNTY COUNCIL  Habitats Directive (EU 92/43/EEC) Screening Assessment Determination

Appropriate Assessment for Ground Investigation Works required for the Phase 3 design of the

N2 Clontibret to Border Road Scheme

 

Monaghan County Council is working in association with Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) to develop a scheme to upgrade a 28km section of the N2/A5 Dublin- Derry Road. The proposed N2 Clontibret to Border Road Scheme is situated in County Monaghan between Clontibret and the Northern Ireland (NI) Border. This is an important project to enhance key North/South and Regional connectivity and to improve road safety.

Ground Investigation works are required along the proposed project route to examine soils, rock and groundwater below the surface. This information will be used to inform the design process and the Environmental Impact Assessment. Different types of Ground Investigation are proposed along the length of the proposed N2 Clontibret to Border Road Scheme, including;

• 239 No. Boreholes (cable percussive, rotary core and cable percussive with rotary follow-on techniques will be used);
• 262 Trial Pits;
• 59 Pavement Cores; and
• 28 Slit Trenches.

The works are planned to commence in September 2024, and will be undertaken over the course of approximately 4 months.

 

Monaghan County Council, in accordance with Article 6(3) of the EU Habitats Directive (Directive 92/43/EEC) and the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011 as amended, has undertaken Appropriate Assessment screening on the proposed N2 Clontibret to Border Road Scheme Ground Investigation Works to assess, in view of best scientific knowledge and the conservation objectives of the site, if the works, individually or in combination with other plans or projects, are likely to have a significant effect on a European Site(s).

It has been concluded on the basis of information provided by Jacobs Engineering Ireland in a report titled ‘N2 Clontibret to Border Road Scheme, Ground Investigation Works – Screening for Appropriate Assessment’ that the GI works are not connected with, or necessary to, the management of any European site(s), and individually or in combination with other plans or projects are not likely to have a significant effect on any European sites. In accordance with the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011 as amended, Monaghan County Council has made a determination that Appropriate Assessment is not required for the works.

 

The ‘N2 Clontibret to Border Road Scheme, Ground Investigation Works – Screening for Appropriate Assessment’ report can be viewed at the offices of Monaghan County Council’s Roads & Transportation Section, Floor 2, MTEK II Building, Knockaconny, Monaghan, Monday to Friday between 9.15am and 5.15pm until the 25^th October 2024.

 

Dated the 21^st August 2024

 

Signed on behalf of the competent authority: Nicola Payne, A/ Director of Services

Transportation, Community and Rural Development

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.

Monaghan County Council – Age Friendly Business Recognition Programme

REAP THE REWARDS OF BECOMING AN AGE FRIENDLY BUSINESS IN MONAGHAN

In Ireland it is predicted that there will be 1.4 million people aged 65 and over by 2041, with this age group making up 22% of the overall population. Older people account for up to 50% of all consumer spending in the EU. They have time to shop, they like to shop, and they are loyal customers. They will come back for repeat business if the consumer experience is comfortable and pleasant for them.

Looking after older customers isn’t just about good business sense, it is both common sense and an increasing necessity in our world today where business is becoming increasingly competitive. That’s the opinion of Barry Eaton, Monaghan Age Friendly Programme Manager, who is relaunching the Age Friendly Business Recognition Programme in the Monaghan area, with training being arranged for 16^th July. He understands that while our older demographic is experiencing a sharp increase in numbers, businesses can increase their trade in our older demographic by making their experience more comfortable, personal and to strongly signal that their business is valued.

It is relatively easy to make a business age friendly. Most age friendly practices are low or zero cost and can make a big difference to older customers. Changes such as making it easier for older people to find out about available services and how they can access these services are good for all customers. When a business lets their customers know that they are aiming to be age friendly, they are letting older people know that they value their custom and are committed to serving them.

All businesses in the Monaghan are invited to sign up to the Age Friendly Business Recognition Programme for free. Participating businesses are required to nominate an “Age Friendly Champion” to undergo a short training course, consult with customers and implement three Age Friendly actions. The actions are often zero or low cost options which can make shopping easier for older customers. Examples include providing better signage, using larger fonts on print material and having designated Age Friendly parking.

The business benefits from the programme as, having successfully completed the programme, an Age Friendly accredited business can display their certification and accreditation window sticker. They will also be listed on the agefriendlyireland.ie website. Barry Eaton, Monaghan Age Friendly Programme Manager, explains that “becoming an Age Friendly business benefits both the business and their customers. It will drive new customers to a business and help them retain them as older customers show greater loyalty towards local businesses and typically outspend other customers.”

Interested businesses are invited to sign up to this free programme by booking on the link at https://bit.ly/3KP0HZH or   https://www.localenterprise.ie/Monaghan/Training-Events/Online-Bookings or by contacting Monaghan Age Friendly Programme Manager Barry Eaton by emailing Beaton@monaghancoco.ie

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.