2011 Pride of Place in Laois

There was no mistaking the pride of local people in Portlaoise and Abbeyleix on Thursday 30th June 2011, when the judges in the All-Island National Pride of Place Competition, Mr. and Mrs Tom and Alison Dowling, came to visit.

Portlaoise Leisure Centre, entered in the category of Community Health Initiative, took the judges by storm when the local community, elected members and officials, staff and management showcased the Centre as a place which is used not just as a community space, but also to promote good health and well- being through the programmes rolled out by the Centre itself and in association with Laois Sports Partnership. The judges were treated to accounts by local people of how the Leisure Centre has changed lives, helped them to achieve such accolades as Paralympic and International Boxing titles, as well as local and national achievements in athletics and triathlon events. The Centre, in partnership with Laois County Council and Laois Sports Partnership showed its centrality and its success in including all groups in the community, taking the initiative with programmes of health and physical activity.

In the afternoon, the judges visited Abbeyleix Town, entered in the over 2,000 Population category, where local people came out in their hundreds to greet them. Fr. Breen Park was awash with soccer, tennis, hockey, hurling and gaelic football playing, music and dancing by local groups and representatives from every group in Abbeyleix who proudly displayed their activities and achievements. Residents’ Associations, sports clubs, local business, social and community groups all came together to show the judges how proud they are of their town. The Judges were given a walking tour of the town on which they met and chatted with local people and business owners as well as viewing the local library and beautiful Sensory Gardens at Dove House, ending the afternoon with tea and scones at Heritage House.

Pride of Place, now in its 9th year, is hosted by Co-operation Ireland under its Local Authority Programme in conjunction with the All-Island Local Authority Steering Forum comprising officials from authorities in both parts of Ireland. The aim of the Pride of Place competition is to recognise initiatives taken by local communities to create pride in their area and to celebrate the vital contribution that community groups make to society. The competition focuses on people coming together to shape, enhance and enjoy all that is good about their area.

The day was well attended by many councillors and public representatives in support of both entrants. Cathaoirleach of Laois County Council, Mr. John Bonham and Deputy County Manager Mr. Gerry Gibson, both acknowledged the groups and communities who participated in this year’s competition and spoke of the enormous benefits to the county of the work and co-operation within local communities.

The results of the All-Island competition, which attracts entries from north and south of the border, will be announced by Co-operation Ireland at a special gala event in Gorey, Co. Wexford in November.