Laois PPN meeting celebrates achievements, leadership, and future plans
Laois PPN Co-ordinator Dan Bergin , Vincent Booth current Chair, Majella Moore ( Laois PPN Administrator), Horace Downey and John Oxley Photos: Michael Scully
A LAOIS Public Participation Network (PPN) meeting took place at Castle Durrow to mark new leadership, reflect on recent achievements and discuss plans for the future.
The meeting was opened by Chair of Laois PPN, Vincent Booth. He welcomed attendees and spoke about the importance of community engagement, inclusive representation, and collaboration in shaping Laois.
Members Ann Fleming and Michael J. Cobbe were recognised at the meeting for their significant contributions to Laois PPN.
Laois PPN co-ordinator Dan Bergin thanked Ann and Michael for their “outstanding contribution and commitment” to the network over many years, noting that their work “has made a lasting difference to community development across the county”.
The meeting also marked an important transition with the appointment of a new secretariat to serve for the next five years. The newly appointed members are Horace Downey, Roghan Headen, Caroline Whitelegg, Matt Doyle, Tom Gorry, Johanna McDonald Steenkist, and Brian Brennan.
They are joined by two members who will continue into a second term: John Oxley and current Chair Vincent Booth.
Dan Bergin continues: “I also wish the new secretariat every success as they take on this important role, and I look forward to working closely with them in the years ahead.” Members in attendance also agreed on the organisation’s key priorities for 2026. The workplan and budget for the year ahead were formally reviewed and approved, setting a clear direction for Laois PPN's activities and initiatives.
The gathering also included a special celebration for renowned local photographer and ‘Laois treasure’ Michael Scully, who recently marked his 80th birthday. The milestone was warmly celebrated by those in attendance.
