Portlaoise doctor to be the perfect tonic for Laois business and tourism

A Laois General Practitioner (GP) has taken the baton of leading and lobbying to advance the interests of businesses in tourism in the O'Moore county.

Dr Michelle Byrne, of Maryborough Family Practice in Portlaoise, was elected as the new Chairperson of Laois Chamber Alliance (LCA) at the body's Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Thursday, October 24, at the Abbeyleix Manor Hotel, where members gathered to review the organisation’s achievements over the past year and outline priorities for 2026.

Before the GP, who lives in Killenard, took up her role officially, the meeting opened with a welcome address from outgoing President Fiona Hyland, who reflected on the Chamber’s progress and key milestones.

“As I step down from my term as President of Laois Chamber Alliance, I would like to express my gratitude to the Laois businesses and tourism providers for helping to strengthen and grow the Alliance. We have mission to make Laois a great place to live, visit and do business. The magic for this to happen comes from us all talking to and supporting other businesses.

"It's been a great term, watching the Alliance grow to almost 40 networking events annually, and seeing the support on offer to our members to help them grow and develop. It’s been an education and a privilege to attend the talk and tours of our Laois businesses. What unbelievable talent and business expertise we have on our doorstep.

"I want to thank the wonderful staff team, headed up by Jackie Carroll, CEO, and the voluntary board of directors for giving so generously of their time and knowledge.

"It's with some sadness that I step away from eight years of involvement with Laois Tourism and three years with Laois Chamber Alliance, but I look forward to continuing as a member and reaping the benefits of being part of such a diverse range of businesses and tourism providers.

"I'm also looking forward to taking on a new role as a board member at Laois Partnership, where I hope to continue to play a role in the economic and social development of Co Laois,” said Ms Hyland.

Dr Byrne, of Maryborough Family Practice, was elected as the new Chairperson of Laois Chamber Alliance.  An active member of her community in Killenard, the family doctor has also played a leadership role in campaigning for enhanced services at the Midland Regional Hospital, Portlaoise.

She outlined her vision as incoming Chairperson, saying her focus for the year is on building a stronger, more resilient Laois ready for the future.

“Working together with our dedicated CEO, the LCA Board, and all our members, we aim to help our community and businesses develop the skills and connections needed to thrive in a changing world. We are fortunate to build on the excellent work of the previous Board, led by former Chairperson Fiona Hyland, whose leadership has positioned the Chamber for continued success. MORE BELOW PHOTO.

Outgoing President Fiona Hyland addresses the AGM in Abbeyleix.

"This year’s vision includes a ‘Spirit of Laois’ fundraiser celebrating local pride and generosity, a Business Expo showcasing enterprise and innovation, and a Future of Work event in partnership with Laois County Council early in the new year. By investing in future skills, strengthening community links, and fostering cooperation, we can secure a bright future for Laois. Together, we are stronger,” she said.

Jackie Carroll, CEO of Laois Chamber Alliance, said she looks forward to working with Michelle and the board in the year ahead.

"Our complete offering to businesses in Laois has evolved over the past number of years, and the Chamber is on a strong footing going into 2026. I am delighted to see three new board members elected tonight, bringing fresh perspectives from across our business community,” she said.

Ms Carroll also outlined plans for the year ahead, with members advised that full details will be distributed in early December.

In closing, outgoing President Fiona Hyland expressed her gratitude to members, sponsors, and partners, and reiterated the Chamber’s shared vision for growth.

“I am incredibly optimistic about the coming year and the opportunities it holds for all of us. Together, we will continue to build a vibrant, prosperous business community here in Laois.

"Laois Chamber Alliance represents the voice of business, community, and tourism across the county, promoting Laois as a great place to live, work, visit, and invest,” she concluded.

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During the AGM, the Chamber’s financial performance and annual reports were presented and approved by outgoing Treasurer Michelle Byrne.

Newly elected board members announced on the evening were Roghan Headan (Tourism Representative), Paul Watters Digital Financial Services, and Angela McEvoy, Director of Economic Development, Enterprise and Tourism at Laois County Council, who joins the leadership team to help strengthen the Chamber’s efforts in business support, investment attraction, lobbying, and networking.

All retiring directors were warmly thanked for their valuable contributions — particularly Fiona Hyland, Thomas Clowry, Dara Cruise, and James McElwee.

For more information on the AGM or to learn about membership opportunities, please contact jackie@laoischamber.ie or visit www.laoischamber.ie.