Dr Michelle Byrne, the new president of Laois Chamber Alliance, says that the mission of the chamber is to build a stronger, more resilient, county that is ready for the future.
Speaking at the president’s lunch in the Killeshin Hotel on Thursday, she spoke of the importance of Laois being a place where “young talent chooses to stay and succeed in Laois … businesses feel supported and ambitious, high quality jobs are created and quality life is a competitive advantage”.
“We are shifting the perception from a county that is overlooked — to a county that is on the rise,” she added.
“I have been on the Board of Laois Chamber Alliance for the past two years and this has been both a professionally and personally rewarding journey.
“Professionally, our practice has benefitted from shared expertise — particularly in HR, staff training, and business supports — and in return we have supported other members through occupational health.
“Personally, I have made friends, met great people, broadened my perspective, and grown a deeper appreciation of the ambition that exists here.”
Laois Chamber Alliance are currently working on developing a new strategy, which will be launched in the coming months.
They also have a number of events in the pipeline for 2026 including a ‘Future of Work’ conference on February 19, a Charity Golf Day on May 15 and a Business Expo on September 15.
“These events will show the scale of ambition and capability that exists,” added Dr Byrne.
“We are strengthening partnerships so that Laois — its businesses, its communities
and its potential — is represented confidently wherever decisions are made.”
Guests at Thursday’s event enjoyed a networking reception followed by lunch and an insightful conversation between Pat McDonagh, Founder and CEO of Supermac’s, So Hotels and the Plaza Group, and Caroline Lydon, CEO of Laois Partnership.
Their discussion was relaxed and informative, it offered valuable business insights, reflections on regional development challenges, and well-received stories of his early days in business.
You can check out a selection of images from the event below.
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