ABBEYLEIX bog was lauded as the “vision” for the future of wetlands across Ireland last week as the first stage of the boardwalk on the bog was officially unveiled. Laois Partnership provided in excess of €21,500 in funding for the boardwalk and also deployed workers from the Rural Social Scheme (RSS) who assisted with the construction work.

In the Manor Hotel, Michael Bergin (Chairman of Board of Laois Partnership) acknowledged the project’s unique blend of natural heritage and eco- tourism. “This new addition to the bog will provide a great facility to the local community and additionally, it will contribute to Laois’ overall Tourism Product” , he said.

Abbeyleix Bog Aerial Jan 2015 from Koos Uys on Vimeo.

 Several speakers from bodies such as the Department of Arts, Heritage a Department of Arts, Heritage and Environment and Bord na Mona spoke on how Abbeyleix bog is the “vision” or “example” for others to follow.

Chairperson of Abbeyleix Bog Project Gary O’Keeffe expressed the group’s gratitude for the support and cooperation of various agencies. “We started 14 years ago and have come a long way,” he said. “It’s one of the great success stories; we think of how communities working together can achieve something amazing.” Mr O’Keeffe thanked all who assisted the bog project, including Laois Partnership, local volunteers, Telford’s, Portlaoise Men’s Shed and the management of Abbeyleix Manor Hotel. The boardwalk was dedicated to the late Mary Hutchinson who played an active role in the community effort to preserve the bog.