It'll be the first time financial contributions will rise in seven years.
Laois County Council is approving a rise of 5% in commercial rates for 2026.
It's the first time the financial contribution to the local authority's services has gone up in seven years.
An overall sum of over €132m is the figure for next year's local budget, up by 7.4% from last year.
Independent Councillor for Borris In Ossory and Mountmellick James Kelly says he hopes most business owners can afford the increase:
Westmeath Woman Wins €300k All Cash Gift Scratch Card
Her husband bought her the card for her 50th birthday.
Man Arrested Over Westmeath Chainsaw Incident
Gardai attended the incident in Athlone.
Prison Service ‘At Breaking Point’ Amid Overcrowding
Irish Penal Reform Trust published the latest report.
Midlands Named Key Focus in Government’s New Tourism Plan, Says Minister Enterprise
'A New Era for Irish Tourism" policy was launched in Westmeath.
Laois Steel Company Receives Top Sustainability Score
It's the first-ever top score in Ireland.
Former Laois Prison Officer Warns Drug Issue Ongoing
The latest report from the Irish Penal Reform Trust shows the rise.
Midlands Pharmacist Recognised For 'Professional Excellence'
A pharmacist in Offaly has won bronze at the Irish Pharmacy Excellence Awards.
Specialised Domestic Violence Judges Needed - ODVSS
Offaly Domestic Violence Support Service is supporting MEP Cynthia Ní Mhurchú's suggestion.
Midlands Waste Facilty Expected To Reopen Next Week
Barna Waste Facility on University Road, Athlone is looking to reopen December 8th.
Call For Detox Beds In Laois Hospital
Labour rep Marie Tuohy is pushing the Health Minister to put them in place in Portlaoise.
Tourism Minister Confident In New Policy Success
Longford-Westmeath TD Peter Burke believes goals set for Fáilte Ireland will be met.
National Tourism Policy Launches In Westmeath
The policy statement has been launched in Mullingar's Belvedere House.
IRHA Criticise Dublin Port For New Tariffs
IRHA President, Rosenall's Ger Hyland has concerns around new container tariffs.
Offaly Training Programme Finalist In European Agricultural Awards
Create Green is nominated in the CAP Network’s Agricultural and Rural Inspiration Awards.
Laois TD Demands New Fire Station For The Region
Rathdowney Fire Station is due a replacement.
Money Muling Spreads Beyond Cities, Midlands Gardaí Warn
Criminals are targeting victims to use bank accounts.
IFA Calling For Licensing Of BTV 3 Vaccines
It follows recent outbreaks of Bluetongue disease.
Hugh Wallace Dies Age 68
Hugh was a director and co-founder of architecture firm, Douglas Wallace Consultants.
Electric Picnic Announces Nine Acts For The 2026 Festival
The event is taking place from August 28th to 30th.
Laois Gardaí Seize Over €3k Of Suspected Stolen Goods
The authorities were operating under Operation Táirge.
