Carthy’s key priorities

Having served on Monaghan Co Council for 12 years, Cllr Colm Carthy (Sinn Féin) says he entered public life “by accident”. His entry followed the electoral success of his brother, Matt Carthy, who stood in both the local elections for Monaghan County Council and the European elections for the Midlands Northwest Constituency. When Matt won both contests, he opted to take up his European seat, leaving a vacancy at local level filled through co-option by his brother.

“The party locally wanted not only a namesake of the person who had won the seat, but someone who knew what challenges were involved in the role. So, they selected me to replace him,” Cllr Carthy recalled, adding that he canvassed extensively for his brother locally.

Colm has deep roots in Carrickmacross. His mother is from the town, and the family returned to live there when he was just four years. That connection continues to shape his work. “One of my jobs as a councillor is to try and find ways we can improve the town. As someone who grew up here, I can categorically say it's a great place to live, work and raise children,” he said.

After taking over the council seat, Cllr Carthy continued a number of local campaigns, including the development of a Group Home for people with sensory and mobility issues. He also highlighted the delivery of the Primary Care Centre as a key achievement. Housing has been a major focus throughout his time in local government. Having served on the council’s Housing Strategic Policy Committee for 12 years, including the past two as chair, he said Carrickmacross has benefited from a steady supply of both social and private housing.

Beyond council duties, Cllr Carthy is vice-chairperson of the Carrickmacross Street Festival. He spoke positively about its growth following its Covid hiatus: “I'm very proud of the expansion of our festival. It has grown exponentially. People have seen what the town would be like without it and make sure it's successful year in, year out.”

Looking ahead, Cllr Carthy's top priority is delivering a permanent swimming pool for the town. He hopes construction can begin in the next couple of years. Swim Ireland’s pop-up pool will be in Carrick for over two years at the end of 2026. Cllr Carthy wants to revitalise Main Street, noting recent business openings and the reopening of the Nuremore provided “a huge psychological lift”.