Portlaoise named ‘Healthy Town’ 2014

The people of Portlaoise can now improve their health and wellbeing for free after being named ‘Healthy Town 2014’.

Portlaoise was given the title last Tuesday, September 2, and it will involve an eight week programme combining free health promotion events, information meetings, health checks and physical activity sessions.

The initiative is a collaboration between The Irish Times, Pfizer Healthcare Ireland and the civic and business community of Portlaoise to try and encourage people to improve their health.

During the eight weeks, The Irish Heart Foundation will be providing one to one health checks and offering advice on smoking, alcohol, physical inactivity, stress and healthy eating. These will be provided through local groups, with some open to members of the public.

Talks and demonstrations from expert speakers will take place, on areas including healthy eating, parenting, mental health, relationships and stress management.

Healthy shopping tours will be given by dietitians in Mulhall’s SuperValu, and numerous sports and fitness activities will be held for people of all ages and abilities.

Officially launching the initiative in the Killeshin Hotel on September 2, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Charlie Flanagan emphasised the importance of being healthy.

“I know that the people of Portlaoise will get behind ‘Healthy Town’ and avail of the wonderful programme of activities.

“Our health is our most valuable asset, and improving the health and wellbeing of the nation is a priority for the Government. I encourage everyone to take this opportunity to improve their health, and the overall health of the people of our town,” he said.

Healthy Town takes place from September 8 until November 2, and a dedicated website with details of all events and activities can be viewed at www.irishtimes.com/healthytown.