Community leaders and representatives recently gathered in Castle Durrow for an important Laois PPN event. A significant meeting of Laois PPN took place at the beautiful Castle Durrow, bringing together community leaders and representatives from towns, villages, and rural communities across Laois to reflect on achievements and plan for the years ahead, highlighting the strength and diversity of community representation across the county. The meeting was opened by Chair Vincent Booth, who welcomed attendees and highlighted the importance of community engagement, inclusive representation, and collaboration in shaping a strong and vibrant Laois. A key highlight of the event was the presentation to Ann Fleming and Michael J. Cobbe in recognition of their significant and lasting contributions to Laois PPN. Their dedication, leadership, and commitment to community development were warmly acknowledged by all present. The meeting also marked an important transition with the appointment of a new Secretariat to serve for the next five years. The newly appointed members are Horace Downey, Roghan Headen, Caroline Whitelegg, Matt Doyle, Tom Gorry, Johanna McDonald Steenkist, and Brian Brennan. They are joined by two members continuing for a second term: John Oxley and current Chair Vincent Booth, providing both continuity and experience to the Secretariat’s work and ensuring broad community representation. "I want to sincerely thank Ann Fleming and Michael J. Cobbe for their outstanding contribution and commitment to Laois PPN over many years," said Laois PPN co-ordinator Dan Bergin. "Their work has made a lasting difference to community development across the county. I also wish the new Secretariat every success as they take on this important role, and I look forward to working closely with them in the years ahead," Mr Bergin said. Read Next: Lidl issues statement as planning decision finally made for new Laois store Looking ahead, members agreed on the organisation’s key priorities for 2026. The Workplan andplaceholder image
Community leaders and representatives recently gathered in Castle Durrow for an important Laois PPN event. A significant meeting of Laois PPN took place at the beautiful Castle Durrow, bringing together community leaders and representatives from towns, villages, and rural communities across Laois to reflect on achievements and plan for the years ahead, highlighting the strength and diversity of community representation across the county. The meeting was opened by Chair Vincent Booth, who welcomed attendees and highlighted the importance of community engagement, inclusive representation, and collaboration in shaping a strong and vibrant Laois. A key highlight of the event was the presentation to Ann Fleming and Michael J. Cobbe in recognition of their significant and lasting contributions to Laois PPN. Their dedication, leadership, and commitment to community development were warmly acknowledged by all present. The meeting also marked an important transition with the appointment of a new Secretariat to serve for the next five years. The newly appointed members are Horace Downey, Roghan Headen, Caroline Whitelegg, Matt Doyle, Tom Gorry, Johanna McDonald Steenkist, and Brian Brennan. They are joined by two members continuing for a second term: John Oxley and current Chair Vincent Booth, providing both continuity and experience to the Secretariat’s work and ensuring broad community representation. "I want to sincerely thank Ann Fleming and Michael J. Cobbe for their outstanding contribution and commitment to Laois PPN over many years," said Laois PPN co-ordinator Dan Bergin. "Their work has made a lasting difference to community development across the county. I also wish the new Secretariat every success as they take on this important role, and I look forward to working closely with them in the years ahead," Mr Bergin said. Read Next: Lidl issues statement as planning decision finally made for new Laois store Looking ahead, members agreed on the organisation’s key priorities for 2026. The Workplan and

PHOTOS: Community spirit runs strong as locals gather for Laois PPN event

Laois leaders and activists gather in Castle Durrow for meeting

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