One local councillor says we need to look at the example set in Cork and Kerry.
Public safety and planning laws may trump outdoor dining plans for some Westmeath businesses.
The local authority's director of services, Barry Kehoe, says safe passage of buggies and wheelchairs will be prioritised.
The outdoor dining scheme stipulates that outstanding rates, from before the pandemic, must also be cleared.
Mr. Kehoe says the council will give the bounce of the ball to business, and parking in some areas will be sacrificed to make space for outdoor dining - but safety will not be compromised.
Fine Gael councillor Emily Wallace says the local authority needs to look at the example set by Cork and Kerry:
Woman Dies In Offaly House Fire
Laois Parks Honoured With Green Flags For Community And Environmental Excellence
Laois Sports Hub Opens For Visually Impaired and Physically Disabled Athletes
Nominations Open For 2026 Offaly Business Awards
IFA Welcomes Sean Kelly’s Lead Role In EU CAP Environmental Report
Kare Honours Three Decades Of Community Employment Success
Enterprise Minister Defends Construction Sector Numbers
Medication Management Failings Flagged At Disability Centre In Laois
Laois TD Questions Farm Plastics Recycling Scheme Over Site Clearance
Government’s Long Awaited Housing Strategy Criticised By Sinn Féin
Former GAA Referee Sentenced To Six Years And Nine Months For Abuse Of Niece
Approval Delays Leave Laois Town Vulnerable With Flooding
Offaly Journalist Recognised As Podcast Wins News & Current Affairs Award
Taoiseach Pledges To Support Fastway Workers And Contractors
Man Released In Laois Under Cross-Border Terrorism Investigation Linked To Sinn Fein Senator
Strong Winds And Rain Expected Today For Most Of Country
Man Arrested In Relation To Terrorism-Related Laois Investigation Released
Midlands Autism Group Calls For Action As 16,000 Children Await Assessments
Westmeath Heritage Park Awarded Funding Under Rural Tourism Fund
Blooming Minds Circle Creates Community For Neurodivergent Children In Laois