Laois changemakers shortlisted for national prizes at RDS Foundation Awards
Eddie Dooley of Laois Friends has been nominated alongside James Deegan of Carrigmeal Woods at the RDS Foundation Awards
TWO notable Laois-based changemakers have been shortlisted for national prizes at the 2026 RDS Foundation Awards.
The Royal Dublin Society (RDS) has announced that Laois natives James Deegan and Eddie Dooley have been nominated for their community and environmental work.
James Deegan has been shortlisted in the Community Woodland Award category for his work with Carrigmeal Woods, a forest walk with a variety of outdoor activities, while Eddie Dooley has been shortlisted in the Sustainable Social Impact Award category for his work with Laois Friends, a local group who oversee the Rockview Walkways and Sensory Garden.
Both nominees will represent the county on a national stage, with winners announced at an awards ceremony at the RDS on 16 April, taking place as part of the Finding Common Ground Festival.
The RDS Foundation Awards honour community leaders who navigate the balance between environmental concerns and economic interests, in what the organisation calls “finding common ground”.
The RDS Agriculture & Forestry Awards and the RDS Circular Economy Awards recognise individuals, organisations, and businesses driving economic, environmental, and social progress in Ireland, from strengthening rural communities to advancing sustainable production and consumption.
Commenting on the festival, Sustainability & Innovation Programme Manager at the RDS, Sarah Keating, said: “The finalists are perfect examples of the ‘common ground’ we are seeking to highlight.
“They are doing the work on the ground – showing us that the transition to a sustainable future is not just a theory, it’s a practical reality that strengthens our local communities and economies.
“This festival reflects the RDS’s commitment to creating spaces where practical ideas can be shared and collaboration fostered. Together, we can accelerate progress and build a more resilient and sustainable future for Ireland.”
James and Eddie are nominated in their categories with entries from Mayo, Galway, Cork, Kilkenny and more.
