During the month, Laois Civil Defence were on duty at the Stradbally Steam Rally, several GAA matches at Portlaoise, and the Mountmellick and Portarlington festivals.At these events services provided included stewarding, provision of rescue boat and first aid cover.

We also assisted Kildare Civil Defence at the Budweiser Derby at the Curragh in July with stewarding and AFS cover.

Members from around the county attended a water rescue weekend training course in Roosky, Co. Roscommon. Boats from Laois, Kildare & Limerick operated together in large-scale exercises.

Preparations are underway for the Civil Defence involvement at the National ploughing Championships, which are taking place on the 24/25/26th September in Ballacolla.