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24 Sept 2025
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24 Sept 2025
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Portarlington marked the town's historic link to France with a special twinning celebration in the parochial Hall on Friday, September 21. Photographer Denis Byrne attended for Leinster Express/Laois Live. CONTINUE READING BELOW PHOTO
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The French Connection Town Twinning Committee were delighted to welcome the visitors from Rédessan, including the Mayor herself. The cheese and wine evening in the Parochial Hall featured Irish dancing, traditional music, poetry, and plenty of celebration. Portarlington's link to France dates back to the 17th Century and the Huguenots who were a religious group of French Protestants. After years of conflicts with the Catholic ruled France, persecution increased under Louis XIV, which led to the exodus of Huguenots from France. Some of these refugees found a safe home in Ireland, with Portarlington chosen as a settlement location.
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