Heather Humphreys on presidential campaign trail in Laois

Presidential election candidate, Heather Humphreys today visited Laois as part of her campaign.

Heather started the day with a visit to Portlaoise Library – a project she opened in 2023 as then Minister for Rural and Community Development.

Speaking on the visit, Heather said:

“It’s really great to be back in Portlaoise Library which I was so proud to open when I was Minister for Community Development.

“This beautiful library is an essential part of the community here in Portlaoise and it was just one of many projects as part of my nationwide strategy to enhance and develop our library services across the country. It’s great to see the library being used by people of all ages in the local community.”

Heather also visited Hughes Pharmacy in the town, marking World Pharmacist’s Day saying.

She said: “Pharmacists are at the heart of our communities, providing a really valuable service to young and old. We rely on pharmacists, and it is important to acknowledge the work they do in providing healthcare in the community.”

Heather also stopped off at Portlaoise Railway Station to highlight the free travel companion pass for all over 70s – a measure she introduced as Minster for Social Protection which takes effect next week.

She said, “I was determined to ensure that people over 70 could bring a friend or relative along with them on public transport journeys free of charge.

“This is a measure I introduced to combat loneliness and isolation and to help support older people to keep active so they can travel around our beautiful country for as long as they wish, and this measure makes it a little easier for them to do so.”