'Selfless dedication' praised at Laois Community and Voluntary Awards #laoisawards24
Cllr Padraig Fleming and Minister Seán Fleming speak at gala event in Portlaoise
The 'selfless dedication' of volunteers to making Laois a better place to live, work and visit, was commended by the Cathaoirleach of Laois County Council, Cllr Padraig Fleming at the gala awards.
Cllr Fleming spoke about the impact made by volunteers when he spoke at the Laois Community and Voluntary Awards Gala night in Portlaoise.
"We gather to recognise your selfless dedication and unwavering commitment to your communities. Your time, cooperation, imagination, and hard work have made a significant difference in the lives of your fellow citizens across all walks of life.
"My heartfelt congratulations and sincere thanks go out to all of you for the exceptional work you have done in your various roles within the community. Your dedication does not go unnoticed, and it is a privilege to be here tonight to recognise your efforts tonight," he said.
Cllr Fleming acknowledged the important role of Laois Public Participation Network in this year’s Awards. He said the PPN serves as a vital link between community organisations and Laois County Council.
"Their volunteers tirelessly promote and support the work of the community/voluntary, social inclusion and environmental sectors in Laois and ensure that your voices are heard in policy- making processes," he added.
Minister of State, Seán Fleming speaking at the event.
"Over the past number of years, growing demands on people’s time has made it increasingly difficult to attract and retain volunteers. However, you continue to work in a diverse range of areas, from caring for the elderly, arranging local events, organising youth activities to improving the environment, and a host of other activities that may be at times difficult to organise, but are for the enjoyment or benefit of others, and I commend and congratulate you for that.
“I would like to thank Laois PPN for their continued association with the Awards, People First Credit Union as corporate sponsor and our long -term media partner, the Leinster Express / Laois Live. Without your contributions, the awards would not be the success they are today,” said the TD.
Minister Fleming urged anyone seeking financial support to talk to their credit union first. He said they are the perfect match for an event like this because it is about the community. He also thanked the Leinster Express for supporting the event and urged those present to support your local media as a source of truth in the news.
The event was also attended by several County Councillors.