Fine Gael TD for Cavan-Monaghan, Heather Humphreys, has welcomed confirmation from the Minister for Transport that plans are underway that will see the mutual recognition of penalty points on both sides of the border.
Deputy Humphreys was informed of the proposals in reply to a recent Parliamentary Question she tabled in the Dail on the issue.
Speaking on the matter, Deputy Humphreys said:
“I regularly receive representations from constituents in Monaghan and Cavan who outline to me their frustration at the fact that motorists from Northern Ireland driving in the Republic are not subjected to the same penalties as southern drivers for offences such as speeding, drink driving and using a mobile phone while driving.
“The Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Leo Varadkar TD has confirmed to me that a timetable has now been agreed for the drafting, passage and enactment of parallel legislation, North & South, by the 31 December 2014.
“The fact that penalty points will be recognised on both sides of the border will help to curtail dangerous driving practices on our roads both North and South of the border. This will be a particularly welcome measure for Cavan/Monaghan and the border area where there would be a much higher level of motorists crossing between the two jurisdictions.
“This is also a further example of the high level of co-operation that exists between the authorities North and South and indeed it will be the first model in Europe for the mutual recognition of penalty points by two jurisdictions. The setting down of a timetable for enactment is certainly a positive development and I look forward to the introduction of this legislation which will close the current loophole where it is possible to escape penalty points simply by crossing the Border,” said Deputy Humphreys.
Once again Main Street Carrickmacross was filled with thousands eager to enjoy the Carrickmacross St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Over 50 colourful groups and organisations took part in the parade this year, and despite numerous threats, the rain stayed away! The Carrickmacross Branch of the Comhaltas Ceoltoirí warmed the crowd up prior to the Parade by playing a selection of traditional tunes which are always guaranteed to entertain. 
Naofa wore high vis jackets promoting green schools. This year the town was delighted to have a number of new groups joining the parade, in particular Born to Perform, who had a “Beauty and the Beast” themed float accompanied by an array of little dancers who entertained the crowds as they followed the parade route. Word International Ministries also joined the line up for the second year and looked very impressive with their traditional outfits and tambourines. Some of our walking groups included the 6th Monaghan Scouts Group from Killanny/Inniskeen, the Aces Athletic Club, Friends of Lough Derg, Stedfast House, Mullaghraferty School and the Cycling Club. 
Well done to all the bands and organisations that participated, their contribution to the Parade was appreciated by all. We look forward to seeing you all back again in Carrickmacross in 2014.
mp which was run over two days in Carrickmacross Workhouse was a great success, with ten teams of students from the three second level schools in Carrickmacross working on problems identified as issues for the future including; water shortage & cross food contamination.
Asthma Society of Ireland warns Monaghan locals to get their asthma under control and manage their hayfever too! 
Department to consider extending period for CE participants in Childcare sector - Humphreys
Carrickmacross Cancer Society recently launched its web site: 
nt was organised by Bizzy Bees Childcare at the request of Garda Martin Mc Kenna ('Martin the Guard') who wanted a party for all the kids he had met down through the years while a garda in Carrickmacross.
