Laois PPN celebrates a memorable year
Administrator Majella Moore, Ann Fleming and Claire Cobbe at Roundwood House for the Laois PPN celebration. Photo: Michael Scully
MAGICAL Roundwood House near Mountrath was an enchanting venue to celebrate a remarkable year for Laois Public Participation Network (PPN).
The beautiful centuries-old house, nestled in the foothills of the Slieve Blooms, welcomed a festive gathering of the county’s PPN secretariat and staff for the joyful event, which marked not only the year end meeting of 2024 but also the 10th anniversary of the network’s establishment on a national level.
A glass was raised to another successful year, accompanied by a delicious occasion cake supplied by the Gingerbread Patisserie in Portlaoise.
Community groups are at the heart of the organisation, with 700 groups from every town and village in the county now registered with Laois PPN as the network continues to flourish.
Key highlights in 2024 included the election of 17 community representatives to policy-making boards and committees in the county and the rollout of the property marker, which is a crime prevention initiative.
Other important ventures included Laois PPN’s Climate Action Project, which was a calendar of events to support community groups with positive climate actions in their areas.
The exceptional contributions of community groups and volunteers were recognised at the 2024 Laois Community and Voluntary Awards, organised by Laois County Council and Laois PPN, supported by People First Credit Union.
Wishing all member groups a happy Christmas and new year, Laois PPN coordinator Dan Bergin said, “Significantly, this year marked a milestone in the history of PPNs, as we celebrated the 10th anniversary of our establishment on a national level. Laois PPN look forward to supporting the community groups of Laois in 2025 and beyond.”
Member groups are from the community, social inclusion and environmental pillars throughout the county and all are given the opportunity to attend Laois PPN events. More groups can join by completing the application on the Laois PPN website www.laoisppn.ie
