‘Proud moment’ for Laois village as local committee honoured with reception
A Municipal District reception was held to honour the Camross Heritage Committee for their outstanding achievement in developing the Fr John Lalor Complex in the village.
Members of the Camross Heritage Committee attended the reception at County Hall in Portlaoise which was hosted by the Cathaoirleach of the Borris-in-Ossory/Mountmellick Municipal District, Cllr Conor Bergin.
The new community hub, named in honour of the late Fr John Lalor, has revitalised the village of Camross.
The development was funded by Laois County Council as part of the Town and Village Renewal Scheme and it received contributions from Pobal and the LEADER programme.
After careful strategic planning and a mammoth effort from the local community to fundraise and facilitate the development, a fabulous multi-purpose facility has been delivered which includes a modern community building, a gym, landscaped parklands, a tree nursery, a looped riverside walk and an aquatic outdoor classroom which has been developed with LAWPRO funding.
One of the central features of the development was the Poet’s Cottage which now operates as a community café. The heritage building was originally constructed to honour the local poet Patrick Ryan.
Over €250,000 was granted for the development of the Poet’s Cottage through the EU Just Transition Fund.
Speaking at the reception, Cllr Conor Bergin said: “This evening is a proud moment not just for Camross, but for the entire Municipal District of Borris-in-Ossory/Mountmellick. The Fr John Lalor Complex stands as a testament to what can be achieved when community spirit, vision and dedication come together.
“This Project reflects an outstanding commitment to preserving and promoting our local heritage, ensuring that the rich history and story of Camross is not only remembered but shared and celebrated. The work of the committee has been driven by the volunteers, local pride and by a deep respect for those who came before us.”
Members of the Camross Heritage Committee were presented with a Certificate of Achievement and a painting of the Poet’s Cottage by local artist Mike Rafter.
Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme