Write a Book Awards Night 3rd may 2007

One thousand pupils, teachers, parents and parents converged on the Montague Hotel in Portlaoise to celebrate the publication of 1,200 books by pupils from Schools in the Midlands in the Write a Book project. This project is organised by Laois Education Centre in partnership with Laois Enterprise Board.

Guest of Honour, Don Conroy of RTE's The Den complimented Laois Education Centre on the very efficient organisation of the project. He said that the 50% increase in books from last year was a great compliment to all the teachers, pupils and parents involved. Don who has supported the project for the last 8 years said that it was not just the number of books published that was significant, it was the quality of the work of all involved. Don entertained all present with dramatic stories and beautiful drawings. Many people went home with Don's drawings on books, envelopes and any paper available.

Tony Mahon, Director of Laois Education Centre said The Write a Book project is one of the most exciting, interesting and finest projects for pupils organised by Laois Education Centre. Tony said the quality and variety of books is outstanding and the are beautifully and artistically illustrated with books on Poetry, Travel, Sport, Novels, Animals and some books as Gaeilge. All human life was in the books. Tony thanked the teachers who initiated the project, supported their pupils, read other class books and helped with recommending merit awards. He also thanked the pupils and their family members, the co-ordinators of the project, Rosemary, Bridie and Yvonne and Don Conroy for his support of the project over the years.

Merit awards were presented by Don on the evening and each participating pupil received a certificate of participation.

On next Thursday 10th May Don will present awards in Birr to the schools from Offaly and Tipperary who participated in the Write a Book project.

Merit Winners 2007