March 2003 was a landmark month for hospitality in Laois with the opening of The Heritage hotel in the heart of Portlaoise. Golf legend Seve Ballesteros, Mountrath TV star Claire Byrne and future Taoiseach Brian Cowen were among the many guests who were there for the ribbon cutting by Minister Cowen. Laois potographer Alf Harvey was on duty on the day to capture the historic day for the town with the opening of the hotel, which is now known as the Midlands Park Hotel.
17. Red carpet opening of The Heritage Portlaoise.
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18. Seve Ballesteros and Tommy Keane with Niall P. Reddy, Acting Chief Executive, Bord Fáilte (left) and Douglas Jordan, Registrar, Bord Fáilte at the official opening of The Heritage, Portlaoise.
Photo: Alf Harvey.
19. Gathered at the Heritage.
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20. Guests at the opening.
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