Michael Rainey is returning to the Laois local authority after half a decade in Carlow.
"A huge honour and a privilege".
That's how Michael Rainey is describing his new role as Chief Executive of Laois County Council.
The former Director of Housing with the local authority has just finished a five year stint as Carlow's Director of Services and interim-CEO.
Mr Rainey succeeds John Mulholland and Peter Carey in the role in Laois.
He's paying tribute to his predecessors: