Minister for Housing Eoghan Murphy cuts ribbon at new Portlaoise council estate

The first council estate to be built in Portlaoise, Laois in over a decade, was officially opened today by Minister for Housing Eoghan Murphy.

Conniberry Way has 33 A rated energy efficient homes of 2, 3 and one 4 bedroom houses, built off the Old Knockmay Road. 

Keys were handed out a fortnight ago, to people and families on the council waiting list considered to have the greatest need.

"While 33 families moving in here are very fortunate to get new homes, we know we have to make more progress," Minister Murphy said.

The estate was blessed by Portlaoise Parish Priest Monsignor John Byrne.

Also at the opening on Monday June 18 were Laois Offaly TD and Minister for Justice Charlie Flanagan, and Laois Offaly TDs Brian Stanley and Sean Fleming, council management, the builders Michael Kelly & Co and some of the residents of the new houses. 

"It is going to be a great little neighbourhood, I am not under the fear of rent going up any more," said new resident, mother of two Trisha Flanagan who with her daughter Caoimhe, helped the minister to cut the ribbon and then gave him a tour of her house.

Over 1,000 people are still on Laois County Council's housing list.