Remarkable Laois community activity praised by Council CEO

​Laois is extremely fortunate to have such a strong and vibrant community and voluntary sector, according to Laois County Council’s CEO, Michael Rainey, who commended the remarkable work done by volunteers honoured at the Laois Community & Voluntary Awards 2026.

Welcoming all to the event, Mr Rainey told the gathering that the Laois Community and Voluntary Awards stand out among the many events he attends in his capacity as chief executive.

“One of the great privileges of my role is that I get to attend many events and occasions right across County Laois. But I have to say, this is always one of the nights in the calendar that I particularly look forward to.

“There is a very special atmosphere in the room at these awards. There is a positivity and an energy that comes from bringing together people who care deeply about their communities and who give so generously of their time, their energy and their talents to help others,” he said.

Mr Rainey believes that the awards are about showing gratitude. “It is an opportunity for us to pause, to recognise that contribution and, most importantly, to say thank you,” he said.

The CEO said the strength of any county is found in its people.

"Here in Laois we are extremely fortunate to have such a strong and vibrant community and voluntary sector. We saw this vibrancy recognised on the national stage recently with the huge success for Laois at both the national Tidy Towns Awards and the Pride of Place Awards.

"There was an extremely strong result across the board for Tidy Towns groups in Laois, especially our winners – gold awards for Portlaoise and Durrow, bronze for Ballacolla, the special endeavour award for Ballinakill and of course gold and the award of Ireland’s Tidiest Small Town for Abbeyleix,” he said. MORE BELOW PHOTO.

He also highlighted the double Pride of Place success for Laois with Portlaoise Tidy Towns being named runner-up in the Climate Action and Biodiversity category and Clough village’s win in the Population 0-300 category.

“These are great achievements that highlight how strong and vibrant our towns and villages are, thanks to the exceptional community spirit that we have in this room,” he told the awards.

He said the Laois Community and Voluntary Awards celebrate such community spirit.

“Celebrating the volunteers across our county who support their neighbours, organise activities, enhance their local areas, promote inclusion, support young and older people, and strengthen the communities around them,” he said.

He said that all award winners and nominees should be immensely proud.

“To be nominated means that someone has seen and valued the difference you are making within your community.

“I would also like to acknowledge the fantastic response to this year's awards, demonstrating the remarkable level of community activity taking place throughout Laois,” he said.

Mr Rainey said the event would not be possible without the support of the council’s partners and sponsors.

He thanked Laois PPN for their collaboration and important role in supporting and representing communities throughout the county. He thanked the corporate sponsor, People First Credit Union, for their “valued support and commitment” to the Awards.

He thanked the media partner, the Leinster Express, for helping to “highlight and celebrate the wonderful work” of community and voluntary groups. He sincerely thanked the associated partners, Connect Laois, Laois Sports Partnership and the Laois Volunteer Centre.

“Your support is greatly appreciated and plays an important part in making tonight's celebration possible,” he said.

He also paid tribute to the Council’s Community Team who have been “working tirelessly”, with the support of our Communication Officer to make tonight happen.

Mr Rainey also thanked the judges for giving their time and expertise to what he said was a very difficult task. He was also grateful to everyone involved behind the scenes in organising the event.

He concluded by thanking those honoured this year.

“Most importantly, to all our nominees, finalists, volunteers and community groups, thank you. The work you do strengthens our communities and makes a real difference to the lives of people across Laois,” he said.

He urged all to enjoy the awards and continue their good work.

“Take pride in everything you have achieved, and continue the wonderful work that makes our county such a special place. Congratulations to you all,” he concluded.