Population:6,000
Employment:Monaghan has not attracted any significant multinational investor. Most employment is created by local small businesses (the town is the centre of Irish furniture manufacturing) and the public sector. Under the McCreevy civil service decentralisation plan, the Combat Poverty Agency is scheduled to relocate to Monaghan.
Hospitals:Monaghan General Hospital (96 beds); St Davnet's (psychiatric).
Education:There are 5 crèches and one Montessori school in the town. Four primary schools including a Model School and a Gaelscoil. Four secondary schools: St Louis convent (a famous and highly-regarded school for girls); St Macartan's College (ditto, for boys); Collegiate School (mixed); and Beech Hill College (mixed).
The Monaghan Institute of Further Education & Training offers a range of FETAC-approved courses in subjects ranging form childcare to web design.
Third level at the Dundalk Institute of Technology; closest university is Queen's in Belfast.
Culture:The Market House has an art exhibition space and hosts traditional, jazz and classical music events as well as readings. Drama at the Garage Theatre. Cinema at the Diamond multi-screen.
Must visit:Monaghan County Museum opened in 1974 and was the first local authority-funded museum in the State. Superbly presented and fascinating collection cataloguing all aspects of Monaghan life from the Stone Age through to the 20th century. Strongly recommended for both adults and children.
Nature:Rossmore Park (700 acres) at the edge of the town is run by Coillte and provides walking trails and a sanctuary for birds, animals and plant life.
Sport:Harps GAA club; rugby club; Monaghan United soccer club; Rossmore golf club; leisure centre with pool. Angling in the many little lakes.
Events:The Harvest Time Rhythm & Blues festival (September) Websites: www.monaghan.ie and www.monaghantourism.com Local Radio: Northern Sound Radio 96.3 fm
Best aspects:attractive, unspoilt town with impressive architectural heritage
Main issue:Ongoing local campaign to prevent downgrading of services at Monaghan General Hospital.
