The National Union of Journalists has expressed grave disappointment at the decision of the Smyth family to cease publication of the Northern Standard.
The proprietors have decided to cease publication next week.
Séamus Dooley, Irish Secretary, said: "This is a blow to journalism and to county Monaghan. It is regrettable that the decision has been taken to cease printing and publishing one of the best know regional titles.
It would have been preferable that the proprietors sought external investment or considered an initiative such as a community cooperative, if they did not wish to sell to an existing group.
The Standard has been part of the landscape of Co Monaghan since its foundation. Staff have contributed enormously to its continuation and it is regrettable that only statutory redundancy appears to be available. "
He added: "There is a worrying lack of diversity in the Irish regional newspaper market. Community and locally based newspapers are badly needed and the concentration of ownership in the hands of a few companies is a major concern for
