New community minibus launched for Laois

A NEW minibus for use by community groups across the county has been launched, with funding of over €50,000 from Laois Co Council.

The community vehicle will be available for individuals and small groups who do not have accessible travel options, helping them to become more involved in local activities and events.

The minibus will be managed by local development company Connect Laois, formerly known as Laois Partnership and was supplied by Downey’s Auto Stop in Portlaoise.

The vehicle was purchased with funding of €51,205 secured from the county council through the Community Recognition Fund (CRF), via the Department of Community and Rural Development and the Gaeltacht.

The keys for the shiny new minibus were handed over to chief executive Caroline Lydon and Marion Griffith of Connect Laois, when they collected the vehicle in Downey’s on 29 September.

Caroline pointed out that Connect Laois is involved in supporting new arrivals throughout the county but transport continues to be an issue, particularly in rural areas. She said the community vehicle will support individuals and small groups, whose lack of accessible travel options is “a real barrier to inclusion and integration”.

Although there is access to local link services, they do not always suit individual needs, meaning people may not be able to attend important appointments such as hospital or school visits.

The CRF’s stated aim is to support the development of community infrastructure and facilities for the entire community, in recognition of the contribution being made by communities across the country in welcoming and hosting significant numbers of arrivals from Ukraine and other countries.

To enquire about the use of the minibus, contact Connect Laois on 057 8661900 or email info@connectlaois.ie.