A great ‘buzz’ around the county

Taste of Monaghan plays a vital role in showcasing the county’s exceptional food producers and giving local businesses the recognition they deserve, according to Cllr Bronagh McAree.

The Sinn Féin councillor believes the annual festival shines a spotlight on one of Monaghan’s greatest strengths – its thriving food sector – while bringing communities together to celebrate the county’s producers, restaurants and artisan food businesses. Describing the event as “a real family day for Monaghan”, Cllr McAree said Taste of Monaghan creates an opportunity to highlight the quality and diversity of food produced across the county. “It just showcases everything we have,” she said.

“I actually think Monaghan is a real foodie town that probably doesn’t get enough recognition.”

She said the festival generates “a great buzz” each year and praised the organisers for their commitment to delivering an event that benefits the wider community.

“The organisers are absolutely brilliant,” she said, describing Taste of Monaghan as “great for the community”.

For Cllr McAree, the festival is about more than celebrating good food. It provides an important platform for local producers, growers and food businesses to promote their products, attract new customers and reinforce Monaghan’s growing reputation as one of Ireland’s leading food counties. Born and reared in Monaghan, Cllr McAree said her appreciation for the county deepened after spending eight years living in London before returning home to raise her family.

“There was no better place really,” she said.

She believes Monaghan’s strong sense of community is one of its defining characteristics, contrasting it with the anonymity of city life.

“Your neighbours look after you,” she said. “Everybody’s very friendly.”

That community spirit, she believes, is reflected in Taste of Monaghan, where local businesses, producers and families come together to celebrate what the county has to offer. A nurse by profession, Cllr McAree was elected to Monaghan County Council after years of community activism.

“Well, sure, I’m always giving out, so I may as well stand up and do it myself,” she said of her decision to get involved with politics. Representing the Emyvale area, she continues to campaign on issues including improved health and mental health services while promoting initiatives that showcase Monaghan and support local enterprise.

“I love it so much,” she said of her home county.