A little over two years since the Covid-19 pandemic arrived in Ireland and change our lives, a dignified and low profile ceremony was held in Portlaoise on Sunday evening.
Organised by Laois County Council, the event took place at Fitzmaurice Place in the town and was attended by local representatives as well as members from various front line services.
Among those in attendance was Dr John Connaughton, clinical director in Portlaoise Hospital, Brigid Downey from St Brigid’s Hospital Shaen, Josephine Rigney from the HSE and representatives from An Garda Siochana, An Post, the Order of Malta and the Civil Defence.
Candles were placed on the memorial by Laois-Offaly TD Brian Stanley, Cllrs Catherine Fitzgerald, Ollie Clooney and Padraig Fleming and by Monsigor John Byrne and Reverand Jan Finlay.
The wreath was laid by Cllr Thomasina Connell while Laois County Council were represented by Director of Services Donal Brennan.
A poem was read by local author Pat Boran while Denise Doyle provided the music. Carmel McNicholl (senior executive officer with Laois County Council) was the MC.
“The first report of Covid 19 in Ireland was in February 2020,” said Cllr Connell in her address.
“This unknown virus would change people’s lives significantly and give rise to anxiety, uncertainty and fear across the world.
“Very soon afterwards governments introduced measures to help combat the spread of the virus which while impacting on our daily lives also helped to protect us. Life as we knew it changed completely.
“Illness and hospitalisations followed quickly and sadly coronavirus now accounts for over 6,000 deaths in Ireland.
“It is with great sadness that we commemorate those who lost their lives to Covid 19.
“Many here today have been touched by the pandemic and without our loved ones that loss is even more felt when it comes to birthdays, anniversaries and other events but they will always be alive and with us in our minds and hearts.
“We also remember those who worked tirelessly and selflessly during the pandemic, our frontline workers, those worked in our health services and nursing homes, An Garda Siochana, carers and those who provided essentiall services and utilities upon which our citizens depend.
“We should also remember those who freely gave of their time and volunteered their services in the community to look out for and after their neighbours, friends and those vulnerable members of our society.
“National solidarity provided us with the strength and determination to face the challenges that we met and continue to meet and helped us to foster and nurture our community spirit.
“Our ceremony here today is an important opportunity for us to pause and reflect on the impact of the last two years.
“It has been a difficult time for many but the pandemic showed us the power of the human spirit and the commendable way in which we all pulled together whilst at the same time staying apart.”
You can check out a selection of images from the event from photographer Michael Scully below.
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