Flowers and farewells for Laois council official changing roles

A longstanding Laois County Council senior official who is leaving Municipal District duties got a fond farewell at her final March Portlaoise meeting.

Michelle McCormack who has worked with the local authority since the year 2000, is just changing roles but councillors gave her the warmest of goodbyes and a bouquet of flowers, such is the esteem in which they hold her.

The Portlaoise MD Cathaoirleach Cllr Paddy Buggy thanked her on behalf of the district.

"I'm the shortest occupier of a seat here but the help and support I really appreciate as does everyone here," Cllr Buggy said.

The six other councillors also sang the praises of Ms McCormack who is from Cloneygowan in Offaly.

"You're the most dedicated person I've ever come across. That's the way you've been since I started in 1999. Your workload was huge," said Cllr John Joe Fennelly.

"When remote working came in you were way ahead, in contact with us morning, night and weekend. This is just a small recognition of all you've done for us over the years," Cllr Catherine Fitzgerald said.

Director of Services Simon Walton had words of praise for Ms McCormack too.

"You're six years doing Municipal District meetings and you're not leaving, just going in a slightly different direction. You have been an absolute massive help. A lot of business is discussed in the chamber in the district and the council meetings. You'll be sorely missed for your attention to detail, it's exemplary," he said.

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Area Engineer Wes Wilkinson also thanked Michelle McCormack.

"You are so dependable, so contactable, so detailed in your approach, I appreciate all you have done and wish you the best of luck in your changing role," he said.