WATCH: President Catherine Connolly meets Laois locals during Portlaoise visit
President Connolly visits Portlaoise Family Resource Centre
On Wednesday July 8, President Catherine Connolly paid a visit to Laois.
During her visit, the president called in to Portlaoise Family Resource Centre (PFRC), speaking with Laois locals and dedicated volunteers.
The centre works with the local community to identify needs and develop appropriate responses. They provide a wide range of programmes, supports and services for families and individuals living in Portlaoise and environs.
During this visit, the Wednesday Choir performed for Ireland’s first citizen, entertaining the gathered crowd. President Connolly was warmly welcomed to by PFRC manager Joan Bolger, who provided the president with a tour of the building and introduced her to those in attendance.
The president met with Portlaoise Family Resource Centre staff, Laois County Council staff Chief Executive Michael Rainey and Cllr Caroline Dwane Stanley who is the chairperson of Treo Nua, and Brian Stanley TD.
President Connolly also met with the the family resource centre’s antenatal group, Portlaoise Community Stop Smoking Service, the Lemon and Lime youth group, Portlaoise’s seniors group and Portlaoise Crafty Ladies.
The president was presented with a framed photograph from local photographer Terry Conroy, and heard ‘Catherine Connolly, a Voice for Ireland’ recited by its author, local poet Leah O’Reilly Redmond.
President Connolly had visited the centre during her presidential campaign last year, and had promised to return.
In spring 2024, Portlaoise Family Resource Centre (FRC) established a wellbeing / social inclusion singing group pilot as part of THEIR Mental Health Early Intervention and Prevention work. Research shows the positive impact of singing on mood, reducing anxiety, depression and social engagement, improving overall wellbeing.
The Wednesday Choir meet every Wednesday morning to sing together, enjoy a cup of tea and a chat.
For more on President Connolly’s visit to Laois, keep an eye on the Leinster Express / Laois Live website!