The Government has launched a series of projects across Monaghan funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development as part of the 'Our Rural Future' programme.

The Department's Minister, Heather Humphreys TD visited the main street in Newbliss where she viewed work underway on the €2.7 million Rural Regeneration Project, which will see a former Courthouse converted into Enterprise and Digital Hub. The Minister said: "I wish to congratulate everyone involved in this project, which will see the old Newbliss courthouse transformed into an Digital and Community Hub that will benefit the whole community. Projects funded by my Department’s Rural Regeneration and Development Fund are delivering vibrant and liveable town centres and ensuring that rural communities can prosper over the months and years ahead."

The Minister was attended St. Enda's National School in Scotshouse for the opening of new Car Park facilities and safe walking route. Following this, Minister Humphreys travelled to Clones for a series of events that included:

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•Unveiling new Children’s Outdoor Exercise Equipment at the Peace Link Campus: Equipment installed includes bicycles, rowers, twisters and cross trainers.

•Opening Clones Streetscape Enhancement and Micro Park: Department funding provided for repair of building facades, upgrades to street lighting and installation of Micro Park.

During the visit to Clones, the Minister also made a stop at the Marina, where efforts are underway to restore the Clones section of the Ulster Canal. This restoration project aims to establish a navigation channel stretching from Clones to the Clonfad Aqueduct.

Speaking about the Ulster Canal Restoration Project the Minister said: "I have long been a champion of Ulster Canal Restoration Project, which has profound symbolic meaning for communities on both sides of the border. This hugely significant project is a game-changer for Clones and our border region. Once finished people will be able to travel by boat to Clones all the way from Limerick. I was very pleased to provide funding of €5.57 million under the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund."

The day's last event was the official opening of Éire Óg GFC’s Community Walking Track and MUGA playground in Smithborough, which received support from the Town and Village Renewal Scheme. This initiative includes the development of a illuminated walking track around the Eire Og Na Mullai GAA club, along with the installation of astro-turf facilities at Railway Park in Smithborough village.