Laois Integration group leadership change

There is set to be a changing of the guard in the leadership of the voluntary Laois agency that works to advance integration in the county.

The Laois Integration Network (LIN) is expected to elect a new Chair at its annual general meeting in Portlaoise in early April as Karen McHugh has announced that she is stepping down as Chairperson. A statement to the Leinster Express / Laois Live said other positions to be appointed on the night include Treasurer, Secretary and PRO.

The Network was established in February 2016, initially under the auspices of Doras Syrian Resettlement Project. Since June 2016, it has operated as an independent entity, consisting of community and statutory organisations, as well as individuals from Irish, migrant, and diverse faith communities across Laois.

Dale McKay of MGL teaching bodhran at a Music Generation Laois event with Laois Integration Network for residents of the Montague at Emo Court. Picture: Alf Harvey.

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Following the conclusion of this programme, the membership expressed unanimous support for continuing to meet and work together to promote integration initiatives within the county. It was agreed that the Network, which is broadly representative of the diversity Laois, is well-placed to continue advancing these goals.

A zero-cost shop for Ukrainian war refugees in Portlaoise was among the many initiatives taken under Ms McHugh's leadership.

LIN’s current PROs are Pauline Flanagan and Emer Liston; current Treasurers are Ruta Maciuliene and Kasjan Jatkowska; no named secretary(s).

The AGM takes place on Thursday, April 3 in Laois Partnership Office at New Road, Portlaoise (R32VY22).