Laois County Council is to light up in the national colours of Ukraine this evening in support of the country following the Russian invasion.
A Ukrainian flag is also to be sourced so that it can fly over the building in Portlaoise in a show of solidarity – following a request from Sinn Fein’s Aidan Mullins that was seconded by Caroline Dwane Stanley.
While Laois County Council is also to send a letter of support to the Ukrainian Embassy following a request from Independent James Kelly.
This comes after it was confirmed that a Ukrainian man who is entrenched in life in Laois is flying home to fight in the war that has broken out.
The issue was raised at this morning’s meeting of Laois County Council by Cathaoirleach Conor Bergin.
All of his fellow Councillors supported the move and also condemned the actions of Russian President Vladamir Putin.
Cllr John King said: “We must show solidarity with the people of Ukraine who are being bullied out of their homes by Russia.
“They are bombing hospitals and schools and I was delighted to see our Government pledge €50 million in support of Ukraine.”
Cllr Padraig Fleming said: “It is terrible what is happening and the situation is only getting worse.
“I know that neighbouring countries are also worried that Russia could invade them too.”
Cllr Aisling Moran said: “I think we should try raise some funds to be able to send toiletries and any other items we can to Ukraine.
“We are on the edge of World War 3 and it is so sad to see what a narcissistic man can do.
“Ireland needs to stop buying anything Russian. We need to help turn the Russian people against Putin because I think this is the only way that this will stop.”
Cllrs Paschal McEvoy, John Joe Fennelly, Catherine Fitzgerald and Thomasina Connell also expressed their solidarity with Ukraine – with Cllr Connell explaining how a Laois man is among those gone to fight.
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