The village of Timahoe was in prestine condition as a special guest arrived earlier this week to officially open the Timahoe Heritage Centre.
The Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys, saw first hand the rich history of the Round Tower and the ambitious future plans for its development.
Delighted to be part of the momentous occasion, the Minister performed the official unveiling of the TVRS funded Timahoe Arts Centre.
Her visit was further enriched by enjoying a cup of coffee at the Coffee Unit, funded under Community Enhancement, where Viking figures proudly stood, keeping an eye on the proceedings.
Following a tour, all in attendance headed into the Heritage Centre where Mary O’Dwyer, chairperson of Timahoe Heritage Committee, spoke about the importance of the development.
She said: “Needless to say, operations as grand as this project don’t just fall out of the sky.
“I would like to thank the Minister for having the foresight to approve and support our renovations and development.
“Also to Laois County Council and the local department of the environment for all of their help, advice and support.
“The former Heritage Officer, Catherine Casey, submitted the initial request for a conservation grant which opened many of the doors for where we are today.
“Thanks to local Reverend Alec Pursur and the Church of Ireland community who always support us.
“This building was constructed in 1855 and in the early 1970s, it was signed over to Laois County Council, becoming the local library until 2006.
“It then lay idle until 2014 when it reopened as a heritage centre. It now incorporates all that is good about heritage and community.
“It is a place to meet, have a chat, connect and immerse yourself in local heritage.
“Our Tower and Bean Coffee Shop, which is run voluntarily, was born out of Covid to provide an amenity to allow people to reconnect in a safe and beautifully historic place.
“Our committee, who are missing one of their main men today in Roghan Headen as he is away, is all about keeping heritage alive and accessible for all who visit Timahoe.
“Our local community take great pride in their area and support us in every way that they can.”
The Cathaoirleach of Laois County Council, Paschal McEvoy, said: “The Timahoe Heritage Centre is more than just a building; it represents the heart and soul of the community.
“It will serve as a hub for cultural education, a venue for engaging events, and a place where the rich history of Timahoe can be cherished and celebrated.
“The Heritage Centre stands as a beacon of pride and a testament to the shared history of Timahoe.
“It is a space that encapsulates the essence of the community, preserving its cultural treasures and providing a platform for its stories to be shared with generations to come.”
Donal Brennan, Director of Services, said: “As the doors of the Timahoe Heritage Centre officially opened, the community rejoiced in the knowledge that their efforts have borne fruit.
“The Heritage Centre stands as a symbol of unity and community pride, a place where the past is honoured, and the future is envisioned.
“The grand opening ceremony was a true reflection of the vibrant spirit of Timahoe, and it marked the beginning of a new chapter in the community’s journey to preserve and share its heritage.”
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