Laois Climate Action Festival Unveils 50 Free Events to Inspire a Sustainable Future

Laois County Council announces the Laois Climate Action Festival, showcasing 50 climate-positive events and initiatives across the county.

Laois County Council is proud to introduce the first-ever Laois Climate Action Festival, taking place from the 6^th to 23rd October 2024. Featuring 50 diverse events across the county, the festival aims to inspire climate action, spotlight sustainability, and showcase the incredible work of local partners. Curated by the newly formed Climate Action Section of Laois County Council, the programme highlights an array of climate-positive initiatives designed to engage the entire community in the effort to create a greener future and the best part is that all events are free to attend.

The festival officially launched with a photocall that featured upcycled robots, created by Bernard Brady of the Portarlington Art Collective. These robots, made entirely from repurposed materials, encapsulate the festival’s central message of reducing waste through creativity. The robots are a powerful symbol of the innovative ways in which waste can be reimagined and reused. 

Speaking about the festival, Suzanne Dempsey, Climate Action Coordinator for Laois County Council, said: 

“The Laois Climate Action Festival is not only a platform to raise awareness but a celebration of the fantastic work being done in our community to promote sustainability. The programme has been carefully curated by our newly formed Climate Action Section to highlight local efforts and engage the public in creative and meaningful ways. We’re proud to showcase 50 events that offer something for everyone, encouraging a collective effort toward a more sustainable future.”

The festival’s extensive schedule includes a variety of workshops, seminars, and creative sessions, ranging from discussions on biodiversity and sustainability in schools, to upcycling projects and nature walks. Local organisations, including PPN, The Cube, Laois Libraries, Laois Partnership, and Laois Chamber Alliance, will host many of the events, providing educational opportunities and hands-on experiences for attendees. Standout events include the Climate Cocktail Club, the Laois premiere of Mrs. Robinson, and Colm O’Regan’s comedy gig “Climate Worrier”, combining entertainment with critical discussions on climate action.

Simon Walton, Interim Chief Executive of Laois County Council, stated: 

“The Laois Climate Action Festival is a key initiative in our commitment to addressing climate change at a local level. It demonstrates the significant progress being made in fostering climate-positive projects and engaging the wider community. The newly established Climate Action Section has curated a comprehensive programme that not only raises awareness but actively involves our partners and the public in shaping a sustainable future. We are confident that this festival will have a lasting impact, encouraging meaningful action throughout the county.”

The Laois Climate Action Festival offers a diverse range of activities that cater to all interests and age groups, ensuring that everyone has an opportunity to participate in climate-positive actions. Whether through interactive workshops, insightful discussions, or creative exhibitions, the festival provides a platform for learning, innovation, and community involvement.

For more information on the Laois Climate Action Festival and to book events, visit https://laois.ie/laois-climate-action-festival/.

The Laois Connects 2024 Health & Wellbeing Programme, led by Laois County Council will take place from the 7th October to the 13^th of October 2024. Events are happening throughout the county and there should be something for everyone in the schedule of events.

The Laois Connects 2024 Programme is a collaboration between Laois County Council, Laois Sports Partnership, Laois PPN, HSE, Mental Health Ireland, Portlaoise Youth and Family Resource Centre, Mountmellick Community School, LOETB, Healthy Laois, Laois Libraries, Dunamaise Arts Centre, Laois Volunteer Centre and Youthwork Laois.

The Cathaoirleach of Laois County Council, Councillor Padraig Fleming had the following message for the people of Laois;

“ The  Laois Connects initiative is an important wellbeing initiative and this year’s focus on “Connecting ” is something we should all make an effort to do  in order to connect with what improves your  health and happiness. I encourage all ages to attend events during the programme and to prioritise your mental health and wellness now and in the future”.

Ms. Josephine Rigney, Resource Officer for Suicide Prevention with the HSE and a member of the Laois Connects Organisation Committee offers these words of advice and encouragement;

“Every one of us are faced with the challenges of life, no matter what age or at what point we are in life.  Having a good and positive sense of emotional wellness enables us to navigate such challenges.  Taking the time to promote and enhance our wellness and wellbeing is therefore time well spent.   Laois Connects reminds us that there are small and achievable things that we can do to ‘connect’ with our emotional and mental health, whether this is keeping active, looking after our physical health, staying in touch with others, having a chat if we need to talk about something, or just doing something that we enjoy and get meaning from.   Keeping ourselves mentally and physically well on an ongoing basis is a gift that we can give to ourselves and one that will enable us to cope with the ups and downs of everyday life.  It is important also to be aware that sometimes we may need some support from others, and we don’t have to do it all on our own.  Reach out to your support system – family, friends, or someone you can trust.  Connect in with the various supports and services that are available – they are there for you and anyone who may need some help and support.  Check out www.connectingforlifemidlands.ie or www.yourmentalhealth.ie or Freephone: 1800 111 888 for a list of local and national services. “

Finola Colgan Development Officer, Mental Health Ireland Midlands Louth and Meath said;

“Given the current societal changes, addressing mental health issues is more timely than ever. The theme for World Mental Health Day 2024, set by the World Federation for Mental Health, is “It is Time to Prioritise Mental Health in the Workplace.” This year, Laois Connects is focusing on the theme of Connecting. Incorporating regular team-building activities, open communication, and social events can help strengthen  workplace  connections and create a more supportive workplace culture.

Laois Connects offers a fantastic opportunity to learn more about mental health . Throughout the week Laois Connects will place  an emphasis on activities that can support and enhance our mental well-being. Connecting with others outside of work and our homes plays a crucial role in maintaining our mental health, as strong social connections can provide emotional support, reduce stress, and foster a sense of belonging.”

Among the events planned are willow weaving workshop to connect with craft  being offered by Laois County Council’s Sport and Leisure Department. These classes will be delivered at various locations throughout the county. Check on   www.laois.ie for further details.

Laois Sports Partnership are delivering a range of activities and programmes, both for the week of Laois Connects and beyond, these include Chair Yoga and Pilates programmes, sequence dance with Maureen Culleton, Jive classes, fun days for all abilities, aqua aerobics and the ever popular Vicarstown park run. These activities will connect you with fitness and most importantly with others as you get to dance, play and exercise with others. Watch both Laois Sports Partnership and our socials for updates.

We encourage everyone to get out walking & running in the fresh air and we have listings of walks in Laois to get you out to stretch the legs.

The Dunamaise Arts Centre will connect you with the arts as they have a free movie screening for students on the 8^th October. Bressie also comes to the Dunamaise on the 8^th with his live podcast “ Where is my mind?”

Among the other events taking place for Laois Connects week are a wellness walk in Emo Court on World Mental Health day, the 10^th October, a performance by the amazing Sing for Joy choir in St Mary’s Hall on the 9^th October and a mindfulness workshop in Portlaoise Family Resource Centre on Friday the 11^th October.

Further details regarding dates, times, locations of all events will be issued soon.

You are welcome to visit our website www.laois.ie or follow us on social media for updates……….

Check on   laois.ie  or on our social channels for further details.

To see where our events are in your area click

https://rb.gy/70lcko

Further info

https://laois.ie/departments/community/laois-connects/

https://www.laoissports.ie/

www.mentalhealthireland.ie

https://laois.ie/departments/libraries/whats-on/

https://www.dunamaise.ie

https://www.portlaoisefrc.ie/

https://laois.ie/departments/libraries/whats-on/

 Mental Health Ireland- Five Ways to Wellbeing Webinar:  we will be offering a free online Five Ways to Wellbeing Webinar every day in October.. People  are welcome to register for the webinars here

 https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/connect-to-five-ways-to-wellbeing-webinar-tickets-1005085125667

The Age Friendly Laois and Healthy Laois initiative has been shortlisted from 31 applicants for the communication category of the national age friendly awards 2024. Being shortlisted for such an award is an acknowledgement of the value of the initiative. It is as a result of the quality of the exhibitors , the speakers and the workshops on the day and of course of the many attendees who came. Thank you to all !! Presentations to the judging panel will follow on the 20th September at Council offices and the awards ceremony takes place on the 7th November at an event in Dublin. Fingers crossed!! To join us on

judging day the 20th September, call Tom on 086 0363426 .

Laois County Council is delighted to support the NZEB and Retrofit Mobile Training Rig for Energy Awareness Week. The rig will be stationed in the upper car park of Laois Shopping Centre, near the Old Ulster Bank premises. The week promises to offer an exciting array of activities and information throughout the week.

On Monday and Tuesday, electric car owner Nick will share his experiences with electric and hybrid vehicles, providing valuable insights for those considering making the switch. Throughout the week, representatives from two One-Stop-Shops, KORE Retrofit and Electric Super Homes Ireland, will be present to offer expert advice on energy-efficient home improvements.

We will have a launch for the week, at the Old Fort Tuesday evening around 7pm. Tickets are limited and available on Eventbrite.

Laurence from SEAI will be available on the rig to inform the public about various grants and schemes that can support energy-saving projects. Additionally, local lending institutions will be on hand to provide advice on green loans, helping to make these sustainable changes more affordable.

If you’re interested in solar energy, don’t miss the opportunity to meet Nigel and Paul from AEI on Wednesday and Thursday. They will be offering a special promotion: eight solar panels for the price of six, exclusively for Energy Awareness Week.

For those looking to deepen their understanding of NZEB (Nearly Zero Energy Buildings), consider registering for the LOETB course on Thursday, hosted by The CUBE. Tickets are available through EventBrite. LOETB will also be running a workshop titled “An Introduction to Circular Economy,” providing a comprehensive overview of sustainable practices that can benefit both the environment and the economy.

This week promises to be an engaging and informative experience, with something for everyone interested in energy efficiency and sustainability.

Call for Expression of Interest – Appointment of Chairperson to the new Local Community Safety Partnership for County Laois

Laois County Council invites expressions of interest for consideration for appointment as Chairperson of a new Local Community Safety Partnership which is be established in each Local Authority area in line with the Policing, Security and Community Safety Act 2024.

The Closing date for receipt of Expressions of Interest is Monday 22^nd July 2024 at 5pm.

Further Information is available by contacting dce@laoiscoco.ie  or by clicking on the link below

Call for Expressions of Interest – Appointment of Chairperson to the new Local Community Safety Partnerships for County Laois

[ngg src=”galleries” ids=”16″ display=”basic_thumbnail” thumbnail_crop=”0″]Laois Community & Voluntary Awards 2024

                                   🌟 Call for Nominations! 🌟

We’re excited to announce that Laois County Council is now accepting nominations for our upcoming Community & Voluntary Awards. Do you know someone who deserves recognition for their outstanding contributions? This is your chance to shine a spotlight on them!

Never has Community spirit and voluntary effort been so important and valuable, in sustaining all of our communities. Laois County Council in conjunction with Laois PPN and our long-standing sponsor People First Credit Union, wishes to recognise community organisations and individuals who work tirelessly in their community in the 2024 Community & Voluntary Awards.

The purpose of the awards is to acknowledge groups and individuals who, through their commitment to voluntary and community activities, have played a significant role, in enhancing the quality of life in their communities.

Launching the awards in the idyllic surroundings of Emo Court, the Cathaoirleach of Laois County Council, Cllr. Paschal McEvoy noted ‘’There are so many selfless individuals throughout the county, who freely give up their time, to help those within their community. These awards are a brilliant way to recognise the tireless work they do.’’

Donal Brennan, Director of Services, Laois County Council invited people to enter this year’s awards citing.

‘’Each year the Community & Voluntary Awards Event rightly celebrates and acknowledges the significant and highly valued role that volunteers play in our communities; Laois County Council is pleased as ever to host the event in association with our partners Laois PPN and People First Credit Union.’’ he said.

‘’The Irish proverb “ar scáth a chéile a mhaireann na daoine” recognises that that we all rely on others in our community in order to thrive.  Volunteers are the backbone of community organisations across the County. The efforts of volunteers make our society a better place to live for all. The Community & Voluntary Awards Event each year recognises that contribution of volunteers across the County.’’ He concluded.

Speaking on behalf of People First Credit Union, Carol Murphy, Marketing Manager said; “People First Credit Union is proud to return once again as the main sponsor of the Laois Community and Voluntary Awards. These awards celebrate the invaluable contributions of local volunteers who tirelessly work to enhance the quality of life in our communities. We are honored to partner with Laois County Council and the Laois Public Participation Network in recognizing the extraordinary dedication and impact of volunteer groups across the county.

Mr. John Oxley, Chairperson of Laois PPN: “The spirit of community and volunteering is incredibly strong in Laois. The Community and Voluntary Awards are an opportunity to celebrate the individua

ls and groups who enrich all our lives with their selfless work and to highlight the tremendous Community work happening in Laois day in and day out. The Community and Voluntary awards have given well-deserved recognition to many fantastic groups and unsung heroes over the years, and we look forward to shining a spotlight on more of their great work this year.

A special thanks to our main sponsor of the Awards, People First Credit Union for their continued support. We wish all the groups who enter this year the very best of luck.”

Managing editor of the Leinster Express, Laura McLoughlin was delighted to attend the launch of this year’s awards. 

“Community spirit is truly alive and well in Laois. Right across the county volunteers and community groups are going that extra mile to support their towns and villages through fundraising, helping to keep their areas litter-free or organising events that bring people together,” said Laura. 

“Incredible work is being done and these awards are a fantastic way to recognise and celebrate those volunteers.” 

So, go ahead and get nominating your local community and voluntary groups and individuals.

Categories for 2024 are:

Arts, Culture & Heritage Award – This award recognises Groups/Organisations who enhance their local areas, by conserving, protecting and promoting the Arts, Culture and Heritage of their local community through collective creative activities.  Examples include – Drama, Music, Literature, Arts, Festivals, Conservation, and Heritage. – Sponsored by LCC Arts & Heritage Sections

Social Inclusion Award – This award recognises Groups/Or

ganisations that actively work in a supportive role in their communities and whose aim is to minimise social exclusion and/or help to improve the quality of life for socially excluded groups.  Examples include working with the elderly, People with Disabilities, Ethnic Minority, Travelling Community, Young people in transition, LGBTI+ and the Homeless. – Sponsored by Laois Partnership Company

Sports Award – This award is to recognise and celebrate

group in our local communities from clubs, and community organisations that go above and beyond in their efforts to promote community sport and physical activity opportunities.  This award aims to acknowledge groups or organisations that provide a leading role in their communities to help to improve the quality of life and reduce barriers to participation through physical activity or sports. – Sponsored by Laois Sports Partnership

Climate Action Awards – This award recognises communities carrying out awareness initiatives and/or actions that make a positive contribution against climate change. Climate actions can encourage your community to improve the impact of their everyday choices, support local communities and foster a sustainable approach to protecting the environment. – Sponsored by LCC Climate Action Section

Next up we have Best Kept Residential ESTATE Award – This award recognises the hard work and dedication shown in residential areas throughout Laois, recognises the great pride people have in their own communities, recognise the value of our biodiversity, and continue to put in a huge effort, on behalf of the places where they live. – Sponsored by LCC Environment Section

The Health and Well Being Award – This award recognises community health and wellbeing initiatives i.e. mental health, sexual health, awareness raising & promotion around medical conditions, disorders, and disabilities, including opportunities for social connections, increased meaningful daily activities, developing confidence and providing a sense of purpose & positive self-worth for citizens in the community. – Sponsored by Laois Local Community & Development Committee (LCDC)

Junior Volunteer of the Year Award. This award recognises the outstanding contribution young people throughout the county, have made to their local Community. Every community has individuals who are boundless in their energy and determination to get things done. – Sponsored by Laois Volunteer Centre

Each group and individual nominated will be presented with a Certificate acknowledging their contribution to the community and voluntary effort in Laois. There will also be award winners and run

ners up across a range of categories. One of the most anticipated awards each year, goes to an individual, who the judges believe puts in such effort that they can be regarded as somewhat of an Unsung Hero, for the work they do.

How do I nominate?

To submit a nomination, simply click on the link below

1. complete the online forms that are available to you on https://laois.ie/departments/community/community-voluntary-awards-2024/

2. Log onto the Submit https://laoiscoco.submit.com which will be Live for Nominations from Tuesday, 4^th June, 2024.

3. Download Nomination form from  https://laois.ie/departments/community/community-voluntary-awards-2024/ and email  completed form to : awards@laoiscoco.ie or post hardcopy to Community Section, Laois County Council, Áras an Chontae, Portlaoise

4. Hardcopy Nomination forms (only if required) are also available by contacting Community Section, Laois County Council, Áras an Chontae, Portlaoise- Tel no. 057-8664236.

For further information on the Terms & Conditions, please call 057-8664236 or email awards@laoiscoco.ie

Closing Date for receipt of Nominations is Friday, 26^th July, 2024 at 4.00pm

Help us celebrate the remarkable individuals in our community! Nominate someone today and let their extraordinary stories inspire others.

#NominationsOpen #RecognisingExcellence #CommunityHeroes #Inspiration

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