The dedicated work of older community leaders across Laois have been celebrated at a special dinner for them in the idyllic surroundings of a rural heritage family run hotel.
The dinner was a Social Inclusion event as part of Laois PPNs Climate Action Project 2023.
The silver stars were indeed visible in the dark rural night sky at the venue which is close to what is Europe’s oldest mountain range the Slieve Bloom Mountains, far from urban light pollution reminding all of the importance of preserving nature for the future climate.
Laois Public Participation Network (PPN) welcomed their members to a sumptious 4 course dinner menu designed by Roundwood House’s famous singing chef Paddy Flynn, co-owner with his wife Hannah.
A special thanks was given to Peter O’Neill and Michael J Cobbe, who had recently finished their terms as Laois PPN Reps on the board of Laois Partnership Company, described as having "served with distinction for several years".
The PPN's guest speaker was Paddy Buggy who was a founding Member of the Laois PPN Secretariat and is its outgoing Chairperson.
Paddy thanked all those in the room for the tremendous amount they had done and continue to do for their Communities.
"I would like to take this opportunity as I step down from the PPN Secretariat to thank the many PPN Reps and the tremendous PPN Staff I have worked with since 2014.
"It has been a great experience to work with such dedicated people who have a huge interest in the wellbeing of the County. I would like to wish everyone the best of health and success for the future," he said.
Hannah Flynn of Roundwood House said they were delighted to host the gathering of local community leaders.
“It was a privilege not only to give them a memorable dining experience, but also to provide likeminded people the space to chat and foster meaningful connections. Our Christmas tree was put up just in time, adding a lovely festive air,” she said.
Dan Bergin, Laois PPN Co-ordinator had organised the Silver Starlight evening.
“Laois PPN are delighted to be able to recognise the work of all the Communities Leaders who attended. These are the people who are enhancing our communities for now and future generations.
“I would like to give special thanks to Paddy Buggy, who has made an enormous contribution to the success of Laois PPN as a founding member. The PPN will be in existence for a decade nationally next year. Paddy served two terms with distinction on the LCDC, Chaired the National PPN Conference 2022 which was hosted by Laois, was Community Champion during the Covid 19 Response and outgoing Chair of Laois PPN at this year’s Community and Voluntary Awards which celebrates Community Groups Across Laois,” Mr Bergin outlined.
Laois PPN has more tha 650 Member Groups from the Community, Social Inclusion and Environmental Pillars in towns and villages all over the county. All groups registered with Laois PPN are given the opportunity to attend Laois PPN events.
Any group wishing to join can complete the application on the Laois PPN website www.laoisppn.ie
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