A well-known Laois County Council worker has retired after 40 years of dedicated service.

Raheen woman Evelyn Reddin has announced her retirement from the position of Head of Enterprise with Local Enterprise Office Laois.

With responsibility for Economic Development and Tourism in Laois, Ms Reddin's work with her dedicated team has stimulated the creation of over 770 LEO supported jobs since its foundation in 2014.

Under the 2012 Action Plan for jobs the former County Enterprise Boards were abolished and the Local Enterprise Offices were established within the Local Authorities.

Evelyn was responsible for implementing the change over in County Laois and delivering an enhanced, expanded and more integrated support service for micro and small business in the County. She is also a Director of the Portlaoise Innovation Centre and Portlaoise Enterprise Centre CLG.

There has been an outpour of kind words for Ms Reddin, wishing her all the best in her retirement.

Laois County Council CEO Mr Michael Rainey thanked Ms Reddin for her hard work.

"There has been a really strong performance in this county from our Business Support Unit this year, particularly through the LEO office," Mr Rainey said.

"I want to take this opportunity to wish Evelyn Reddin well in her retirement which is coming up soon. And to thank her for her commitment in supporting the enterprise and the business in this county.

"We have been very lucky to have Evelyn, she has been a very loyal servant to Laois County Council and to the business community in this county. I wish her well in her retirement," he praised.

Rathdowney Fine Gael Cllr John King said he "wishes Evelyn good health and happiness in her retirement".

Abbeyleix Fianna Fáíl Cllr John Joe Fennelly also wished her well.

"When I started here in 1999, Evelyn was on the old county enterprise board. Her knowledge is second to none," he said.

Best wishes to Evelyn Reddin in her retirement.

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