Laois Partnership Company (LPC) were delighted recently to welcome invited guests to the opening of their newly refurbished headquarters.
With keynote speaker, Dr Eddie Murphy, and a blessing from Mons John Byrne and Rev Janet Finlay, the building was officially opened.
Long-standing Board member, and Chairperson for the past seven years, Peter O’Neill addressed the crowd, outlining the mammoth task undertaken by the Board and Staff team, in relocating and taking up residence under the one roof.
Mr O’Neill commended everyone involved in the refurbishment, including local suppliers and tradespeople.
The previously derelict building has undergone a transformation and now holds office space for the head office staff team, as well as meeting rooms available to rent to community groups.
Mr O’Neill, who is due to retire from the Board next week, spoke about this pride and satisfaction in seeing this project to fruition.
Monsignor Byrne, who consented to the long-term lease on the parish owned property, outlined his delight at being approached by a community group of long-standing reputation, such as Laois Partnership Company.
“For so many years this was a place of care and that will continue. Your work will assist communities through the county of Laois and those living in disadvantaged areas,” he said.
Recently appointed CEO, Caroline Lydon, outlined how she hoped to do justice to the role of CEO, following the sad death of previous CEO, Anne Goodwin in 2020.
The organisation was pleased to be joined by Anne’s husband, Rodney, as they unveiled a hand made plague in her memory, crafted by the members of the Mountrath Men’s shed.
Members of four men’s sheds came together on the day to provide some heart-warming entertainment to the occasion.
They are one of the many community groups who receive support from Laois Partnership Company and they spoke of their delight in being able to contribute to the celebrations.
Laois Partnership Company is one of 49 local development companies across Ireland.
Receiving funding from the State and EU, they run a number of projects that aim to enhance the local community across the County.
They do this by working with disadvantaged groups, supporting rural development projects and local enterprise and supporting people to improve health and wellbeing.
The company plan to hold an open day in the New Year to outline the programmes and supports on offer and look forward to welcoming members of the community to their new home.
To find out more about the services and supports offered by Laois Partnership Company, visit www.laoispartnership.ie or contact 0578661900.
SEE ALSO – Two Laois winners among 2023 Irish Food and Hospitality Awards
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