Tag Archives: Carrickmacross

PYLONS CONTROVERSY

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ANTI-PYLON GROUP STEPS UP CAMPAIGN AGAINST EIRGRID PLANS FOR ELECTRICITY INTERCONNECTOR
Michael Fisher

EirGrid substation at Ballykelly, Co. Louth near Inniskeen for North/South Interconnector Photo © Michael Fisher

EirGrid substation at Ballykelly, Co. Louth near Inniskeen for North/South Interconnector Photo © Michael Fisher

A group representing landowners and householders opposed to EirGrid plans for an overhead North/South electricity connector that would be routed through south and mid Monaghan met last night to arrange a fresh campaign against the proposals. A public meeting has been organised by the County Monaghan Anti-Pylon Committee to be held on Monday April 20th at Aughnamullen Community Centre, Lough Egish. All of the county’s TDs and councillors are being invited to attend. Committee member Nigel Hillis told the Northern Standard their opposition to the plans was stronger than before.

Last week EirGrid’s Chief Executive Fintan Slye visited Carrickmacross as the company announced its new draft strategy for the future development of Ireland’s electricity transmission grid. It included updated plans for the North/South 400 kV Interconnection Development that would cross five counties from Meath to Tyrone.

EirGrid banner for North/South Interconnector Photo © Michael Fisher

EirGrid banner for North/South Interconnector Photo © Michael Fisher

EirGrid and its Northern counterpart SONI (System Operator for Northern Ireland) are jointly proposing a new high capacity electricity interconnector between the two networks. The draft strategy says there remains a clear need for the North/South Interconnector, and that the existing preference for a 400kV overhead line is still the most appropriate solution for the project.

The development would link a substation at Woodland, Batterstown in County Meath with a planned substation in Turleenan, in the Dungannon area of County Tyrone. EirGrid intends to submit a planning application for the North/South Interconnector in the coming weeks. Currently there is only a single interconnector, that runs past Ballykelly on the Carrickmacross to Dundalk road in County Louth (a few kilometers from Inniskeen)  to Tandragee in County Armagh.

Shane Brennan of EirGrid (right) points out the route of the proposed interconnector Photo © Michael Fisher

Shane Brennan of EirGrid (right) points out the route of the proposed interconnector Photo © Michael Fisher

At their public information office in Carrickmacross, SONI Eirgrid Project Manager Shane Brennan from Clontibret explained to me that the new interconnector would increase the capacity and reliability of interconnection between the two networks. It would allow the two independent networks to operate together as if they were one system, thus improving competition, and securing the electricity supply throughout the island of Ireland. EirGrid maintains that operating the two networks as if they were one system will bring cost savings for all electricity consumers as larger electricity systems can be operated more efficiently than smaller ones.

The increase in interconnection capacity will also facilitate the development of wind generation, which will help achieve Ireland’s renewable energy targets. Last November EirGrid submitted its draft application to An Bord Pleanála for review.  The following month, An Bord informed EirGrid that it has reviewed the draft and that certain specified missing information was required to be submitted. Last month EirGrid sent in further information, as requested.

EirGrid pylon at Ballykelly, Co. Louth near Inniskeen Photo © Michael Fisher

EirGrid pylon at Ballykelly, Co. Louth near Inniskeen Photo © Michael Fisher

Meanwhile EirGrid has re-published its proposed line route which will form the basis of an application for planning approval to be submitted to the planning authority in the coming months. This follows a review of the December 2013 line design. The review resulted in some of the proposed pylon locations being re-positioned along the proposed route, but the alignment itself was not changed.

Maps have now been made available showing the proposed route in County Monaghan. It takes in parts of Kingscourt, Co. Cavan, Magheracloone, Corduff/Raferagh then on to a controversial section around Lough Egish. The route continues to Drumhowan, Doohamlet, Annyalla and Clontibret where it skirts the battlefield site and then joins the Northern grid in County Armagh.

EirGrid has opened three project information offices, including one at the Workhouse in Carrickmacross where those with an interest can  call in and meet the project team. The Carrick office on the Shercock Road is open on Mondays and Thursdays 12 noon – 6pm.

EirGrid information office Carrickmacross Photo © Michael Fisher

EirGrid information office Carrickmacross Photo © Michael Fisher

According to Fintan Slye of EirGrid, there remains a clear strategic need for a second north-south interconnector.
“We committed last year, to be open with people and find out what it is they want from this most critical of infrastructure.  We are now asking people to give us their views on our draft strategy”, he said. Mr Slye concluded: “EirGrid must ensure the necessary grid is in place to ensure that Ireland remains competitive – fostering economic growth, attracting new investments, and supporting indigenous jobs. It must do this without placing too great a burden on communities, or too high a cost on industry. When we have received people’s feedback we will submit this draft to the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources for its consideration before publishing the final strategy later this year.”

The County Monaghan Anti-Pylon Committee has been campaigning against the overhead route for the past seven years. It has argued that the lines should be placed underground. Nigel Hillis, an engineer, said the need for a new interconnector had not been identified by EirGrid and they had not persuaded people living in the affected area that it was needed. This was not the case with another major infrastructure development when the main N2 road was being improved with by-passes around Castleblayney and Carrickmacross.

He said there was still serious opposition to the plans. One of the main concerns from the start, he said, had been the scale of the project, because the size and topography of the small farms in the county had not been taken into account when the positioning of pylons was being worked out. He said EirGrid had not identified the need for having big pylons on top of hills, close to a farmyard or houses. (The company said the centre of the proposed high voltage line would be no nearer to a residence than 50 metres).

Mr Hillis questioned why EirGrid was suggesting that part of the proposed GridWest scheme (up to 30km) could be situated underground using trenches alongside roads. He claimed that people in Monaghan were being treated as second class citizens and said they wanted to be treated the same as others.

The Dáil Communications Committee chaired by John O’Mahony T.D. has invited EirGrid to appear before them in the coming weeks to answer questions about the North/South interconnector. Mr Hillis hopes his group will also be given a chance to put their views across as well. From the first day of their formation the committee had argued for an underground route and that was now feasible, he said, as this option was being considered for the other two major grid projects.

Eirgrid says there are technical issues with putting 400kV AC lines underground over long distances and there would be operational complexities. It maintains that underground cables for the North/South route would be too expensive and difficult to install. Local residents however think the cost to them, their livelihoods, their homes and to local tourism would be equally damaging.

Northern Standard Thursday April 9th p.31 with pictures by © Pat Byrne

Northern Standard Thursday April 9th p.31 with pictures by © Pat Byrne

LEGO IN CARRICKMACROSS

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Lego Display in Carrickmacross by Paul Derrick: Medieval Fort Photo: © Michael Fisher

Lego Display in Carrickmacross by Paul Derrick: Medieval Fort Photo: © Michael Fisher

legologoLEGO enthusiast Paul Derrick has constructed a display of various pieces using half a million Lego bricks. His work can be seen during opening hours at the Civic Offices in Carrickmacross in the lobby beside the Library. The exhibition finishes on Friday afternoon. Paul, who lives in Carrickmacross, is a firefighter. His display includes eight galleons and a model of an Irish medieval fort (a bit like the one in Kinsale). There are pieces conneted with Star Wars and there is a display illustrating the battle of Rorke’s Drift in the Anglo-Zulu war in January 1879.

Lego display Carrickmacross: Battle of Rorke's Drift http://www.lego.com/en-gb Photo: © Michael Fisher

Lego display Carrickmacross: Battle of Rorke’s Drift http://www.lego.com/en-gb Photo: © Michael Fisher

ICA MONAGHAN 60 YEARS

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ICA President Liz Wall with her chain of office Photo: © Michael Fisher

ICA President Liz Wall with her chain of office
Photo: © Michael Fisher

MICHAEL FISHER   Northern Standard Thursday 26th March

“We are not a group of fuddy-duddies, although many people have that perception. Just look at the number of women out on the dance floor tonight, enjoying themselves”. The President of the Irish Countrywomen’s Association Liz Wall was speaking to me after presenting 161 members in thirteen Monaghan guilds with their long service certificates. When the sums were done, the result was that all these ladies had given a total of 4400 years’ dedication to the aims of the ICA in the county, what seems to be a unique record for any voluntary organisation. Two guilds, Aghabog and Clones, accounted for over a quarter of that figure.

ICA President Liz Wall presents members of Ballybay Guild with their long service certificates Photo: © Michael Fisher

ICA President Liz Wall presents members of Ballybay Guild with their long service certificates
Photo: © Michael Fisher

Liz has made three previous visits to the county during her three years in office, which will end in May when her successor will be elected at the AGM in Portlaoise. In October 2013 she opened a conference in Monaghan on Recovery, organised by the Solas Drop-in Centre Monaghan. It was an example of the work the ICA does to promote mental health.

With over 500 guilds throughout the country and around 10,000 members, Liz is very anxious to keep in touch with the members at grassroots level. She finds out their views by sending out questionnaires during the year. These included the Mental Health Survey, the abortion questionnaire, the audit of lace work in Ireland and a rural communities questionnaire.

ICA President Liz Wall presents members of Ballybay Guild with their long service certificates Photo: © Michael Fisher

ICA President Liz Wall presents members of Threemilehouse  Guild with their long service certificates
Photo: © Michael Fisher

The ICA National President recently added her  voice to the Save Rural Ireland campaign. “If rural Ireland dies, we won’t be able to bring it back”, she told me. “I think it’s a very important campaign. Unless someone puts down a marker to do something, nothing will happen.” The campaign includes groups such as Muintir na Tire, the Irish Cattle & Sheep Farmers Association, the Irish Postmasters’ Union, Macra na Feirme, and the Irish National Flood Forum.

The issues raised at its launch include the need for high-speed rural broadband, the continued threat of rural post-offices closures, the theft of scrap metal, the unavailability of insurance in flood areas, and the need for more rural GP cover.

The number of post offices has fallen from 2,300 in 1984 to about 1,100 now. “When the post office goes, the shops go, the chemist goes and then the public bus service goes,” Liz Wall says. “Our members feel that rural Ireland is being totally destroyed. It needs help before it is too late for rural communities.”

ICA National President Liz Wall cuts the 60th anniversary cake (by Mary Reilly Rockcorry) with one of her predecessors Mamo McDonald from Clones Photo: © Michael Fisher

ICA National President Liz Wall admires the 60th anniversary cake (by Mary Reilly Rockcorry) with one of her predecessors Mamo McDonald from Clones
Photo: © Michael Fisher

She paid tribute to one of her predecessors, Mamo McDonald, who helped her cut the cake at the diamond jubilee dinner. She had played a very big role during her term as National President, Liz said.

Before taking on the role of President, Liz Wall served as National Secetary of the ICA. She has visited guilds all over the Republic and has clocked up over 110,000 miles on her car. Last weekend, including the visit to Carrickmacross, she would cover 1500 miles and visit Dundalk and Galway before returning home to Ashford in County Wicklow. She is married and has three daughters who are university students and a 17 year-old son who is in Leaving Certificate year. Before the night concluded at The Shirley Arms Hotel in Carrickmacross, a cheque was presented by the Monaghan Federation to the National President for €2,800 towards the restoration of An Grianán, the Association’s residential college and conference centre in Termonfeckin, County Louth.

ICA Monaghan Federation President Patricia Cavanagh presents cheque to National President Liz Wall for €2800 for restoration of ICA College Termonfeckin Photo: © Michael Fisher

ICA Monaghan Federation President Patricia Cavanagh presents cheque to National President Liz Wall for €2800 for restoration of ICA College Termonfeckin Photo: © Michael Fisher

Outgoing ICA Monaghan Federation President Patricia Cavanagh, Ballinode Guild Photo: © Michael Fisher

Outgoing ICA Monaghan Federation President Patricia Cavanagh, Ballinode Guild Photo: © Michael Fisher

ADDRESS BY OUTGOING ICA MONAGHAN FEDERATION PRESIDENT PATRICIA CAVANAGH
A Uachtarain Naisiunta agus a chombhaill. Ta athas orm faílte a chuir roimh go leir chuig an ocaid speisialta seo anocht.
Madame President, fellow members and special guests, I am delighted to welcome you all here this evening. This year Monaghan Federation ICA celebrates its Diamond jubilee and as part of our celebrations, tonight we will receive our long service certificates for those who are 15 years or longer in ICA in Monaghan. Many thanks to our National President Liz Wall for agreeing to come and be with us on this very special occasion.

Rosa Patterson, founder member of ICA Guild Ballybay 60 years ago Photo: ICA Monaghan book

Rosa Patterson, founder member of ICA Guild Ballybay 60 years ago Photo: ICA Monaghan book

Sixty years ago as Rosa Patterson cycled to and from her work as a primary school teacher in the Ballybay area she stopped and spoke to the local women as they went about their many daily chores on the farm and in the home and realised the need to form a women’s group in the area where women could come together, socialise, learn new crafts and generally discuss items of interest that was common to them all. She maintained that every woman had their own individual potential and skills and encouraged the use of them. Ballybay Guild opened in January 1954 and in June 1955 Monaghan Federation held its first meeting in Hatton’s hotel Ballybay with at least six guilds in the County at this stage. Rosa Patterson became its first President and from there we ventured forward to make our mark in the world of ICA as we know it today.

Monaghan can be proud that two National Presidents were elected from its midst. The first was Josephine Carroll 1972 -1975. Josephine worked tirelessly for the Save Monaghan Hospital campaign and was a skilled craftworker and craft teacher with a keen interest in country markets. She was responsible for the setting up of two branches of country markets, here in Carrickmacross and in Monaghan town. Secondly Mamo McDonald, who joins us here this evening. She became President in 1982.

ICA National President Liz Wall, Honorary President Mamo McDonald and outgoing Monaghan Federation President Patricia Cavanagh Photo: © Michael Fisher

ICA National President Liz Wall, Honorary President Mamo McDonald and outgoing Monaghan Federation President Patricia Cavanagh Photo: © Michael Fisher

There have been many events and gatherings over the years and many women have gained so much from being part of this wonderful organisation at all levels. In 1993 Monaghan ICA was alarmed by the introduction of probate tax in the budget which was going to involve the surviving spouse where joint ownership did not exist facing a new tax. A resolution was passed and brought to National Council calling for its abolition which was then brought to government. An alliance was formed with other interested parties which led to many exemptions being secured.

ICA Monaghan Federation celebration dinner, Shirley Arms Hotel Photo: © Michael Fisher

ICA Monaghan Federation celebration dinner, Shirley Arms Hotel Photo: © Michael Fisher

In 1994 when the teachers’ centre in Monaghan was in danger of being downgraded, the ICA got behind the campaign and petitioned for it to be retained. In 1996 Monaghan Education centre was upgraded to a full-time education centre. At our last Federation meeting we discussed the downgrading of the library service in County Monaghan, where we are going to be amalgamated with County Cavan library services. Once again we hope to petition against this. I could speak of many of our events and achievements, but at this stage I would like to pay tribute to members who are no longer with us. We hope that into the future that ICA will remain strong and vibrant and continue to support women to support each other on their journey through life.

I will finish with this short poem written by a member of Threemilehouse Guild, Kathleen Kieran, who sadly is no longer with us:-
As we celebrate our 60th,
Let’s cast back our thoughts today,
To the women of foresight and courage,
Who founded the ICA,

They gave women a stance in our country,
The voice that was silent now heard,
To speak out for fair play and justice,
That the wealth of our country be shared.

A BUSY THREE YEARS AS FEDERATION PRESIDENT

Patricia Cavanagh from Tullyvogey in Tydavnet was one of the founder members of the ICA’s Ballinode guild at a meeting in the community centre in Otober 1983. Her sister Breege Lenihan also joined. She has had a very busy three years as President of the Monaghan Federation. It is one of five areas in the country that has seen a growth in members, whereas other counties have been in decline. There are around 260 members in the thirteen guilds in the county. The work the Association does to encourage crafts was one of the reasons Patricia joined. Learning skills that can be passed on to a younger generation.

Their trips over the years to the ICA college at An Grianán introduced them to a wide variety of crafts and courses such as cookery, aromatherapy, healthy lifestyle, ballroom dancing and gardening. The Ballinode guild has around thirty members and meets in Tydavnet community centre on the second Thursday of each month. It raises funds annually for different charities and every year their entries feature in Tydavnet Show.

Patricia says the ICA has played a major role in the social, educational and cultural lives of Irish women since its inception. It now aims to attract younger and new members. Any female over 16 is eligible to join. Although it is perceived widely as a predominantly rural group, the “country” in the title stands for Ireland, and the biggest ICA guild is in Blanchardstown, County Dublin.

ICA National President Liz Wall congratulates Killanny Guild members on their long service certificates, among them Mary Callan (right), mother of comedian Oliver Callan Photo: © Michael Fisher

ICA National President Liz Wall congratulates Killanny Guild members on their long service certificates, among them Mary Callan (right), mother of comedian Oliver Callan Photo: © Michael Fisher

The outgoing Federation President says she is proud to have been part of the Association and what it stands for. It has brought friendship, fellowship and comradeship, she says. Patricia gained a particular insight into the history of the organisation when she consulted the ICA minute books held in the National Archives in Dublin. Along with a committee, she helped to produce a book “Friendship and Fellowship: ICA, The Monaghan Story” to mark the national centenary in 2010.

During her term Patricia has visited most of the thirteen guilds in Monaghan. As a former psychiatric nurse, one of the highlights for her was when the ICA along with the Solas centre marked World Mental Health Day in 2013 by organising a Recovery conference in Monaghan, which the National President attended. Liz Wall also came to Carrickmacross for a very successful craft day. The ICA has been to the forefront in helping to preserve both Carrickmacross Lace and Clones Lace.

Calico dolls made for Temple St Children's Hospital by members of ICA Guilds in Clones and Ballinode Photo: © Michael Fisher

Calico dolls made for Temple St Children’s Hospital by members of ICA Guilds in Clones and Ballinode Photo: © Michael Fisher

During the celebration there was an example of how ICA members can use their skills to help others. The play therapists at Temple Street Children’s Hospital in Dublin contacted the women’s group to see if any members could make calico dolls. These dolls are used with the young patients, allowing them to colour in and make unique to themselves their illness or condition and to explain to them their treatment. Sacks of the dolls were handed over at the dinner and will be forwarded by the ICA to the hospital. As a mark of thanks for her service in Monaghan, Patricia Cavanagh was presented with a silver oak leaf brooch by the National President at the end of a very enjoyable evening marking the achievements of the Irish Countrywomen’s Association.

HONORARY NATIONAL PRESIDENT MAMO McDONALD CLONES GUILD

ICA Honorary President Mamo McDonald, Clones Guild, receives her certificate from National President Liz Wall for 60 years of ICA membership Photo: © Michael Fisher

ICA Honorary President Mamo McDonald, Clones Guild, receives her certificate from National President Liz Wall for 60 years of ICA membership Photo: © Michael Fisher

Mamo McDonald from Clones Guild served as National President of the ICA for three years from 1982 to 1985. She said it was the beginning of an adventure that was fulfilling, exciting, educational, exhausting and always challenging. In ‘Friendship and Fellowship’, the history of the ICA in County Monaghan published in 2010, the ICA’s Centenary year, Mamo revealed that it was the leadership of another National President from Monaghan, Josephine Carroll, that encouraged her to run for the position. This was at a time when the ICA membership was at an all-time high of 27,000 members.

“Mamo originally joined the Association in Croom, County Limerick, in 1947 and went on to help found the Clones Guild. It was just after the Second World War and there were many scarcities. Mamo recalled: “In one of my first meetings we learned to cure lamb skins and to make slippers and soft shoes lined with fleece. Today my Guild has lots of younger members, many of whom have joined in the last few years. What do they want to learn? They want to learn to knit, sew, make Clones lace and to learn other craft skills. We have come full circle”.

In another ICA publication Mamo said one of the highlights for her was bridging the gap with the radical feminist movement. “Before my time they were considered “the enemy” and it was a huge challenge for both sides to accept each other and realise that we were usually singing from the same hymn sheet and were able to work more together”, she said. During her presidency the different women’s groups grew closer and closer, supporting each other, and the ICA became more a part of the Irish Women’s movement.

Mamo said she believed the opportunity to travel was one the greatest opportunities she got as National President and the other was the chance to sit on national committees and to really make a difference.

“Before I became President of ICA I had been concentrating on raising my large family and the only holidays I got were short visits to An Grianán”, she said. “Then as President I travelled many times to London working with the Associated Country Women of the World, further afield working with the Confederation of Family Organisations in the EU and I travelled to Canada and to Nairobi in Africa as a delegate to the United Nations International Conference on Women. Being invited to join government- appointed committees was also a great opportunity”.

Mamo recalled: “As a businesswoman with a drapery shop in County Monaghan, I knew a lot about the responsibilities that go with the rights of consumers, so I often spoke out about it. I was invited to join the Committee for Consumer Education. As I was travelling widely at the time, I noticed differences in the welcome received in hotels and establishments in these countries that was often lacking in Ireland. After a visit to Vancouver where I had been very impressed with the customer service I spoke out about the failings in the hospitality sector in a speech entitled ‘Céad Míle Faults?’ and was then invited to join Bord Fáilte”.

The great disadvantage during her presidential term, she said, was being away from home and from her family and that proved very difficult at times. “I have eleven children and I always felt guilty when I was away. When I came in as President some of my children where working, some were in university, some in secondary education and even little ones still in primary school. My husband Eugene died in 1979 so during my presidency, I relied on the wonderful support and great friendship of Patsy our housekeeper and wonderful friend; I couldn’t have done the work of President without her. When I was at home I spent a lot of time baking so that there would be loads of loaves of brown bread in the freezer for everyone and then when I was at home, I felt guilty about not being at work for ICA!”

After her term in office Mamo became involved in the politics of ageing. She is a founder member of Age and Opportunity and the Older Women’s Network. When she was 70, Mamo McDonald returned to full-time education and did a higher diploma followed by a Masters in Women’s Studies in UCD. She delights in her thirty-two grandchildren and four great-grandchildren who visit her regularly.

(from an interview with ICA News)

Irish Countrywomen's Association

Irish Countrywomen’s Association

LED LIGHTS CUT ENERGY BILLS

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COUNCIL ENGINEER SAYS LED LIGHTS CAN CUT ENERGY BILLS BY ONE THIRD  Michael Fisher

Carrickmacross News  The Northern Standard  Thursday 2nd April p.20

An Amey-installed LED light in England Photo: @Ameyplc "We think LED street lights will lead to greener, safer cities"

            An Amey-installed LED light in England Photo: @Ameyplc
           “We think LED street lights will lead to greener, safer cities”

The installation of LED road lighting in parts of Carrickmacross and other areas is helping to reduce significantly Monaghan County Council’s energy bills. The head of a special unit in the Council set up to achieve energy efficiencies told Councillors in the Carrickmacross-Castleblayney Municipal District that the Council intends to reduce its energy use by one-third by 2020. Senior Executive Engineer Alan Hall said the digital LED lights were now the first preference for new public projects, unless there was no advantage. He said they could provide energy savings of between 50% and 60% and the cost of their installation could be paid back through savings within two years.

Since 2011, a number of councils in Britain in cities such as Birmingham and Glasgow have already made the switch to LED lights. They were chosen because they use less energy, and are cheaper to operate and more environmentally friendly than conventional sodium bulbs. The sodium street lamps light up when an electric current is passed through lithium gas, making it glow. Lamps powered by LEDs — light-emitting diodes — glow when current passes through a solid material, known as a semiconductor.

New LED Street Light in England Photo: www.suttoncoldfieldlocal.co.uk

New LED Street Light in England Photo: http://www.suttoncoldfieldlocal.co.uk

They use up to 60 per cent less energy than sodium lamps and are said to last up to eight times longer, reducing maintenance costs and halving electricity bills. The LED lights are also easy to operate as they produce light immediately when they are switched on rather than taking time to heat up, and can be controlled remotely via digital sensors. It is claimed that their bright ‘floodlight-style’ beams help to deter criminals. But in some housing estates in England, where LED lights have been installed, they have proved to be unpopular with residents, who believe their brightness can interrupt sleep patterns.

Following Mr Hall’s presentation, a motion was proposed by Fianna Fáil Councillor PJ O’Hanlon, seconded by his party colleague Councillor Padraig McNally: “That this Council calls on the Minister for Energy Alex White that additional funding be given to Monaghan County Council as a result of a new section (being) set up, i.e. Corporate Assets and Energy Unit, as in our area we only have €45,000 per year for Public Lighting and the projected saving for our area is approx. €130,000 per year”. The motion was passed unanimously. Another motion on alternative energy put forward by the two Sinn Féin members, Councillor Colm Carthy and Councillor Noel Keelan was also agreed:

“That the Carrickmacross-Castleblayney Municipal District writes to Alex White T.D. (Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources) to request information on any future plans to introduce rebates for consumers to sell energy back to the Grid using PV solar panels. This will allow for cheaper and cleaner energy usage throughout the state if implemented”.

EASTER EGG HUNT CARRICKMACROSS

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The Easter Bunny is in town Photo: Carrickmacross Chamber of Commerce

The Easter Bunny is in town Photo: Carrickmacross Chamber of Commerce

Passing through Carrickmacross? Then take part in the Chamber of Commerce annual Easter Egg hunt which started today and runs until Easter Saturday 4th April.

Photo: Carrickmacross Chamber of Commerce

Photo: Carrickmacross Chamber of Commerce

The hunt takes in shops and businesses from all over town. Each business has two eggs hidden in their window.  Everyone is invited to come along and take part. Entry forms are available from Bits and Bobs, Birdys, and Keegans newsagent’s. There are great prizes for the winner and lots of chances to win something on Easter Saturday if you are around.  Carrickmacross Chamber of Commerce invites you to come along and take part in the hunt.  Remember the safe cross code when crossing the streets, and you are advised to wear a high-viz vest.

On the Easter Egg trail Photo: Carrickmacross Chamber of Commerce

On the Easter Egg trail Photo: Carrickmacross Chamber of Commerce

COUNCILLORS OPPOSE GAMING OUTLETS

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Ground floor unit in Carrickmacross proposed for conversion into a private members gaming club Photo: © Michael Fisher

Ground floor unit in Carrickmacross proposed for conversion into a private members gaming club Photo: © Michael Fisher

COUNCILLORS CONTINUE TO OPPOSE GAMBLING OUTLETS 

Michael Fisher

All six Councillors in the Carrickmacross-Castleblayney Municipal District have again highlighted their opposition to a proposed private members gaming club in Carrickmacross. A fortnight ago planners in Monaghan County Council put on hold an application by Carrick Gold Mine Ltd to set up a private gaming club in a vacant commercial unit off Main Street, beside the car park at the rear of the Shopping Centre at Drummond Etra.

Carrickmacross-Castleblayney MD Councillors PJ O'Hanlon, Aidan Campbell, Colm Carthy and Padraig McNally Photo © Michael Fisher

Carrickmacross-Castleblayney MD Councillors PJ O’Hanlon, Aidan Campbell, Colm Carthy and Padraig McNally Photo © Michael Fisher

The applicants said the proposed use of the premises would be for a professionally managed Private Members Gaming Club. It would provide card games like Baccarat and other games like Texas Holdem etc “for groups of dedicated card players”. It would the Club’s intention to have weekly Poker tournaments, some of which would be for local sports teams and associations, according to the letter. The club’s facilities would be open to members only, who must be over eighteen.

Planning officials have requested additional information about a number of aspects and have given the applicants six months to reply to the Council.

Cllr Jackie Crowe (SF), Cathaoirleach Carrickmacross=Castleblayney Municipal District Council Photo: © Michael Fisher

Cllr Jackie Crowe (SF), Cathaoirleach Carrickmacross-Castleblayney Municipal District Council Photo: © Michael Fisher

The March meeting of the Municipal District Council held in Carrickmacross and chaired by Cllr Jackie Crowe heard from District Co-Ordinator Cathal Flynn that because of a loophole in current legislation, there was nothing the District Council could do to prevent the operation of such a club, if the application was approved. Councillor Padraig McNally asked for Standing Orders to be suspended so that he could ask a question seeking additional information, following last month’s decision to write to the Minister for Justice, asking for local authorities to be able to introduce bye-laws that would prohibit gaming facilities, including gaming clubs. He was told that the Council had received a letter from the office of the Minister for Justice and Equality, Frances Fitzgerald T.D., last week. It informed Councillors that the government had approved the general scheme of the Gambling Control Bill in July 2013. The scheme was currently with the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel, awaiting legal drafting. A copy has been made available on the Department’s website. The letter, signed by the Minister’s Private Secretary, said that upon enactment of this proposed legislation, the Minister would assume the sole regulatory function as relates to all forms of gambling, with the exception of the National Lottery. It was not possible to indicate at this point when the Bill is likely to be published, according to the Minister’s Office.

Cllr Padraig McNally (FF) Photo © Michael Fisher

Cllr Padraig McNally (FF) Photo © Michael Fisher

Councillor McNally said this letter should be circulated to local Deputies and they should be asked to help speed up the process of bringing the Bill through the Dáil, so as to ensure this planning application would come under the remit of any new gambling legislation.

Cllr PJ O'Hanlon (FF) Photo: © Michael Fisher

Cllr PJ O’Hanlon (FF) Photo: © Michael Fisher

His party colleague Councillor PJ O’Hanlon said they would do everything in their power through the Council to stop such private members clubs. As public representatives they had a role and a function to represent the views of people on the ground.

Cllr Colm Carthy Photo: © Michael Fisher

Cllr Colm Carthy Photo: © Michael Fisher

Councillor Colm Carthy said a number of local businesses and residents in Carrickmacross had already been in contact with Oireachtas members and they would push the issue to try to get it resolved. Councillor Noel Keelan said their aim should be to try to close the planning loophole concerning private members gaming clubs. Councillor McNally proposed and Councillor O’Hanlon seconded a motion, which was passed unanimously:

“That this Authority writes to our local TDs to ensure the speedy passage of legislation in Dáil Éireann and to seek their support for measures to stop such gambling outlets from receiving consent for planning authorities and court services”.

Cllr Noel Keelan Photo: © Michael Fisher

Cllr Noel Keelan Photo: © Michael Fisher

The Northern Standard

                  The Northern Standard

COUNCILLORS DEFEND LIBRARY SERVICE

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Carrickmacross-Castleblayney MD Councillors PJ O'Hanlon, Aidan Campbell, Colm Carthy and Padraig McNally Photo © Michael Fisher

Carrickmacross-Castleblayney MD Councillors PJ O’Hanlon, Aidan Campbell, Colm Carthy and Padraig McNally Photo © Michael Fisher

COUNCILLORS OPPOSE PLANS TO CHANGE LIBRARY SERVICE  

Michael Fisher

Moves to amalgamate library services in Monaghan and Cavan by the appointment of a joint librarian will be strongly opposed by Councillors in the Carrickmacross and Castleblayney area. A meeting of the Municipal District Council on Monday discussed a submission received by a Ballybay resident and member of the local library, who expressed her concerns over the issue. She said there was a real fear among members that if the proposal goes ahead then smaller libraries like the one in Ballybay would close. The library service is important to local communities on many levels, she told Councillors, and she asked them to contact Minister Alan Kelly to get him and his department to abolish the proposed amalgamation.

Cllr Padraig McNally (FF) Photo © Michael Fisher

Cllr Padraig McNally (FF) Photo © Michael Fisher

Councillor Padraig McNally said they had been told the only proposal was to share the County Librarian between the two counties. But he said they did not need such a change as they already had a good system in place. He proposed that the District strongly objected to any amalgamation. This was the thin end of the wedge and next thing they would be looking at the fire service, he said. The county had already been stripped of so many services.

Cllr PJ O'Hanlon (FF) Photo: © Michael Fisher

Cllr PJ O’Hanlon (FF) Photo: © Michael Fisher

Councillor PJ O’Hanlon said this was the start of another service being taken away from the county. Councillor McNally proposed and his party colleague Councillor O’Hanlon seconded a motion:

“That this Municipal District rejects any amalgamation of our library services. Monaghan has a proud record of providing library services and does not need to be linked with any other counties or regions”. It was passed unanimously.

Cllr Noel Keelan (SF) Photo: © Michael Fisher

Cllr Noel Keelan (SF) Photo: © Michael Fisher

Councillor Noel Keelan said ‘amalgamation’ was another word for cuts and proposed a motion: “That this District Council writes to the Minister, Mr Alan Kelly T.D., requesting that the proposed amalgamation does not proceed, given how important the Library Service is to the people”. Councillor Colm Carthy seconded and this motion was also agreed.

Cllr Jackie Crowe (SF), Cathaoirleach Carrickmacross=Castleblayney Municipal District Council Photo: © Michael Fisher

Cllr Jackie Crowe (SF), Cathaoirleach Carrickmacross=Castleblayney Municipal District Council Photo: © Michael Fisher

Cathaoirleach Councillor Jackie Crowe said they were all absolutely opposed to any amalgamation.

Northern Standard

                                                                        The Northern Standard

JUNK KOUTURE SUCCESS

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Carrickmacross Creation in Junk Kouture Final 

The Future, by St Louis Carrickmacross Art students Naoise Brennan, Katie Lynch and Aimee Ward

The Future by St Louis Carrickmacross students Naoise Brennan, Katie Lynch & Aimee Ward

A group of students from St Louis Secondary School in Carrickmacross have reached the final of the ‘Junk Kouture’ competition with their creation called The Future. Earlier this month the Millennium Forum in Derry was packed with supporters and family members of the eighty regional finalists. Second level schools from the nine counties of Ulster were represented at the event, and five of the regional finalists were from St Louis Carrickmacross, all of them students of Art teacher Patricia O’Reilly. Each model had just ninety seconds to impress the judging panel on the catwalk and twenty designs were chosen to progress to the glamorous grand final of the competition in the 3Arena in Dublin on April 24th. The St Louis girls displayed great creativity in their designs. The school was delighted that The Future, a stunning creation by 4th year Art students Naoise Brennan, Katie Lynch and Aimee Ward was chosen for the All-Ireland Junk Kouture final.

Junk Kouture is a national competition for second level students which challenges teenagers to create high-end wearable fashion from everyday junk that would normally find its way into the bin. Junk Kouture aims to inspire and ignite passion in these teenagers while at the same time subtly educating them about the importance of recycling and reusing waste. Over the last four years, Junk Kouture has established itself as the premier recycled fashion competition for teenagers throughout the island of Ireland.

ICA MONAGHAN CELEBRATE 60 YEARS

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ICA Monaghan Federation 60th Anniversary Cake by Mary Reilly Photo: © Michael Fisher

ICA Monaghan Federation 60th Anniversary Cake by Mary Reilly Photo: © Michael Fisher

The Irish Countrywomen’s Association in County Monaghan is celebrating its diamond jubilee. The first guild was formed sixty years ago in Ballybay, as reported here last month. Representatives from eleven of the thirteen guilds in the county gathered for a celebration dinner at The Shirley Arms hotel in Carrickmacross on Friday evening.

The Shirley Arms Hotel, Carrickmacross Photo: © Michael Fisher

The Shirley Arms Hotel, Carrickmacross Photo: © Michael Fisher

The guest of honour was the ICA National President Liz Wall. She presented long service certificates to members, some of whom had been in the Association for fifty or even sixty years. They included Mamo McDonald from the Clones guild, who was ICA National President from 1982-85.

ICA National President Liz Wall presents a certificate for 60 years' membership to one of her predecessors, Mamo McDonald from Clones guild Photo: © Michael Fisher

ICA National President Liz Wall presents a certificate for 60 years’ membership to one of her predecessors, Mamo McDonald from Clones guild Photo: © Michael Fisher

The outgoing Monaghan Federation ICA President Patricia Cavanagh welcomed Liz Wall and was among the recipients of a certificate for her long service as a member of Ballinode guild, of which her sister Breege is also a long-standing member.

ICA National President Liz Wall presents Patricia Cavanagh with a silver oak leaf brooch to mark her three years as Monaghan Federation President Photo: © Michael Fisher

ICA National President Liz Wall presents Patricia Cavanagh with a silver oak leaf brooch to mark her three years as Monaghan Federation President Photo: © Michael Fisher

ICA Monaghan Federation Banner Photo: © Michael Fisher

ICA Monaghan Federation Banner Photo: © Michael Fisher

ICA guilds meet at least once a month from September to June with many guilds meeting on a more regular basis to  partake in activities such as arts, crafts, dancing, health and fitness regimes and social outings. In County Monaghan there are guilds in Aghabog, Ardaghey, Ballybay, Ballinode, Clones, Killany, Magheracloone, Rockcorry, Scotshouse, Smithboro, Threemilehouse, Tyholland and Mullyash. 

ICA Monaghan Federation 60th Anniversary Cake by Mary Reilly Photo: © Michael Fisher

ICA Monaghan Federation 60th Anniversary Cake by Mary Reilly Photo: © Michael Fisher

ICA guilds around the county are friends you may not yet have met who have already successfully walked a similar path and have much to offer in terms of support and friendship. ICA also needs people like you who can bring new talent, fresh ideas, and renewed energy to our organisation.  The ICA has arranged benefit partnerships with over 200 retail outlets, service providers, and facilities throughout Ireland with members enjoying discounts of up to 20% on their purchases.

Marion Duffy ICA Magheracloone Guild with her long service certificate 50 years Photo: © Michael Fisher

Marion Duffy ICA Magheracloone Guild with her long service certificate 50 years Photo: © Michael Fisher

The ICA encourages members to support and promote many charities. Last year Monaghan members were encouraged to participate in the Walk in our Shoes initiative in October by wearing funky, mismatched, or self decorated shoes to guild meetings, donating €2 to St Patricks Hospital Foundation in Dublin and also to mark World Mental Health Day on October 10th. Work on upgrading and repairing An Grianán, the adult education college in Termonfeckin featured in a recent television programme with Francis Brennan, is ongoing and fundraising continues in all Federations. The Monaghan Federation handed over a cheque on the night to Liz Wall for €2800 for An Grianán.

ICA Ballinode Guild members sample the birthday cake Photo: © Michael Fisher

ICA Ballinode Guild members sample the birthday cake Photo: © Michael Fisher

The ICA was founded in May 1910 by Anita Lett in Bree, County Wexford, Liz Wall’s native county. It was originally called the Society of the United Irishwomen (UI), whose aim was “to improve the standard of life in rural Ireland through education and co-operative effort”. In 1935, owing to political issues the then called UI changed its name to the Irish Countrywomen’s association (ICA). Around this time the ICA also let go of just improving rural lives and began focusing on all areas of Ireland. Contrary to popular belief the “country” within the ICA’s name stands for the country of Ireland as a whole, as opposed to “country” as in rural areas. The biggest ICA guild today is in an urban area, Blanchardstown in County Dublin.

ICA National President Liz Wall with her chain of office and silver oak leaf badge Photo: © Michael Fisher

ICA National President Liz Wall with her chain of office and silver oak leaf badge Photo: © Michael Fisher

Since its inception, the ICA has been heavily involved in campaigns designed to improve people’s lives. The ICA was the first organisation to provide access to adult education, well before the VEC. In its very early years, the then UI focused a project based on the health system in Ireland, due to the fact that women and girls were being sent to England to do basic nursing courses. The UI used what they called “Demonstration Cottages” where classes were held on health care, nutrition and hygiene. These classes also provided care to the sick. In 1954 An Grianán was gifted to the ICA. Since then this has been used as an adult education centre teaching an ever- changing wide range of courses. 

ICA Scotshouse guild member Lorna Soden presents ICAresident Liz Wall with a glazed glass framed certificate she made Photo: © Michael Fisher

ICA Scotshouse guild member Lorna Soden presents ICAresident Liz Wall with a glazed glass framed certificate she made Photo: © Michael Fisher

ICA Monaghan Federation Banner Photo: © Michael Fisher

ICA Monaghan Federation Banner Photo: © Michael Fisher

In the 1950s they campaigned for “better living”, which called for the access to electricity and safe clean water across Ireland. In the 1950s there was still limited access to electricity in some parts of Ireland. To rectify this, the ICA joined up with the ESB to help promote the use of electricity. To do this they made a model of a traditional farmhouse kitchen fitted with all the latest electrical appliances. This was then shown later that year at the ICAs spring show. In 1958 the kitchen model toured the country, now fitted with a dishwasher and microwave, showing people what was possible. In the 1960s some homes still did not have water within their homes and relied on an outdoor pump. To improve this, the ICA began the “turn on the tap” campaign which involved an exhibition and a conference aimed at educating people on how to take action on bringing water into their homes.

ICA Monaghan Federation 60th Anniversary Cake by Mary Reilly Photo: © Michael Fisher

ICA Monaghan Federation 60th Anniversary Cake by Mary Reilly Photo: © Michael Fisher

In recent years the ICA introduced a counselling service and helpline, offering confidential help and support to its members and their families. They have promoted easier access to breast and cervical cancer screening for all women. They opened “the Sanctuary” in An Grianán offering quiet getaways. They helped lobby to make Irish the 25th recognised language within the EU. They have also joined forces with other organisations aimed at improving lives such as SOS, See Change, COFACE with their most recent goal being to reduce the levels of depression within Ireland.

Patricia Cavanagh, outgoing ICA Monaghan Federation President Photo: © Michael Fisher

Patricia Cavanagh, outgoing ICA Monaghan Federation President Photo: © Michael Fisher

CELTIC PURE INVEST €3 MILLION

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Celtic Pure Ltd plant at Corcreagh, Raferagh Photo: © Michael Fisher

Celtic Pure Ltd plant at Corcreagh, Raferagh Photo: © Michael Fisher

€3 MILLION INVESTMENT BY CELTIC PURE TO MEET DEMAND FOR BOTTLED WATER 

Michael Fisher 

There’s been a big demand for a County Monaghan brand of bottled spring water. So much so that the Celtic Pure company based at Corcreagh, Raferagh, near Carrickmacross is investing €3 milion to expand its production line in order to keep up with the increase in orders. Sales of the award-winning water increased by 38% last year, according to the Chief Executive Officer and company founder, Padraig McEneaney.

The natural spring water is sourced from an ancient spring 300 metres down and below the natural filtration beds of limestone rock that can be found in Ulster. The Celtic Pure plant was established in 2000 by Mr McEneaney and his wife Pauline on what used to be a beef farm on land that had been in his family’s possession for several generations. It expanded substantially in 2009, when an extension was opened by the then Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Mary Coughlan. It now employs 42 people, the majority of whom come from the South Monaghan area.

Mr McEneaney went to Inver College in Carrickmacross and left school when he was 16 to work in meat factories. When consumers started to demand bottled water for drinking, he saw the potential in the natural spring well which supplied his family’s homestead. The spring water was tested for quality and from small beginnings, the business is now increasing for a second time.

The company has made a big impact on the ever-growing natural bottled water market and is able to supply all orders, no matter how large or small. Celtic Pure manufactures all its own bottles thus eliminating the risk of contamination associated with packaging transportation. It also reduces the company’s carbon footprint.

Operations Manager Tim Oliver took me through the process. He handed me what looked like a small test tube for science experiments or holding samples. He said it was a preform. It took me a while to realise that this type of plastic container was being transformed into a bottle for holding the water on the production line.

He pointed out the three production lines on the factory floor, two of which are constantly in use at any particular time during a 24-hour period. There are three shifts for the workers, each lasting eight hours. At the moment, the lines can handle 7,000 bottles an hour. Now with the installation of new equipment supplied by the German company Krone, the capacity will increase to 18,000 bottles an hour.

The new machine will be able to combine the process of making the plastic bottles from the performs with the bottling operation. Mr Oliver explained how the preHforms were heated in an oven up to a temperature of 120 degrees Centigrade and then placed in a metal mould, into which high pressure air is injected. The scientific process allows the bottling of the water to be done immediately after the bottles are made.

The bottling is carried out under very controlled conditions using state-of-the-art equipment. The spring water is monitored during the filling and capping process to prevent contamination from the environment. Each bottle is given a specific code that establishes the bottling line, date and time produced.

Packaging is also carefully controlled. Celtic Pure Ltd  has won a number of medals for its still and sparkling water products awarded by the British Bottlers Institute. Earlier this month the company was named as a winner of the Manufacturer of the Year category at the Small Business Firms association awards 2015.

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