Laois hotel gives room to 91 year old on protest walk across Ireland

A Laois country hotel is giving a night's stay to the determined 91 year old woman who is marching 216km across Ireland in a peace protest.

Roundwood House in Mountrath are urging Laois people to come out and support Lelia Doolan as she walks through Laois. 

Proprietors Hannah and Paddy say they are honoured to welcome her.

"Tomorrow night we’re honoured to welcome Lelia Doolan (age 91!) as she continues her Walk for Peace across Ireland.

Lelia Doolan in good spirits on her Walk for Peace from Shannon Airport to Dáil Éireann.

"Lelia has set out from Shannon Airport and is walking all the way to Dublin to highlight and protest the ongoing use of Shannon by the US military.

"For decades, military planes have been landing there to refuel and pass through, something many believe makes Ireland complicit in wars abroad, including the current escalation and fears of wider conflict involving Iran.

"Her walk is a simple but powerful act, calling for peace and for Ireland to reflect on the role it plays in global conflict.

"She’ll be setting out from Mountrath to Portlaoise at 9.30am on Wednesday morning, and everyone is welcome to come out, walk a stretch with her, or simply show support along the way. If you’re nearby, do come out and support her," Roundwood House says.

Irish filmmaker Lelia Doolan who spoke to the Leinster Express / Laois Live ahead of her walk, is also hoping Laois people will come and walk a few steps with her. 

“I know well that the people of Laois value our neutrality. All you have to do is come out for a day, give us a wave, walk with us for a step.

Lelia Doolan, 91 on her walk across Ireland.

"Sing us a song, clap us on the road, beep your horn in solidarity, just remind the Taoiseach and the Government, we are people who want a peaceful world, a kind world, a world of fun, enjoyment, kindness, decency,” Ms Doolan said.

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She had set out from Shannon Airport on March 31.

Supported by a crew, Ms Doolan will arrive into Laois this Tuesday, April 7, continuing her cross country walk from Roscrea to Mountrath. Following her rest in Roundwood House, Mountrath she will walk to Portlaoise on Wednesday morning April 8, and Portlaoise to Monasterevin on April 9, via the Old Dublin Road.  

The peace walk is expected to arrive outside the Dáil in mid April.