A local publican says that he will not be opening late for the opening stages of the FIFA World Cup.
Cllr. Raymond Aughey, from the Squealing Pig in Monaghan Town, says that there hasn't been that much interest in the tournament this year.
He explained that in times gone by local businesses would have promoted the tournament more, with wall charts and merchandise.
However, Cllr. Aughey said the appetite isn't there this time around, with very little interest in the tournament - because of the times matches are scheduled for.
Speaking to Northern Sound, he said that he expects greater interest towards the end of the tournament.
Cllr. Aughey said that because of the U.S time zones, pubs won't open late to watch matches.
He said: "Nobody is going to be opening at two o'clock in the morning to watch matches.
"If Ireland had have gotten in, I'm sure the government would have acted there, but there doesn't seem to be an appetite.
"Usually the World Cup, you'd be watching. With most of the times, if people are going to watch it, they'll be watching at home," Cllr. Aughey added.
The Fianna Fáil councillor also spoke about Ireland's controversial tie with Israel.
There has been much debate as to whether Ireland should play the UEFA Nations League game later this year.
Cllr. Aughey believes the FAI will decide in the best interest of the team.
He said: "The FAI will decide, not matter what, in the best interest. Do we want to be in the Euros? Of course we do.
"Would I love to see Ireland absolutely wallop Israel? I'd love it. It'll be up to the FAI to make that decision.
"While we're talking about what's in the news, we really should be talking about the Irish ladies playing France today, with a chance of going to the World Cup next year," Cllr. Aughey added.
