South Roscommon claims three awards at Greener Spaces

Winners from the south Roscommon region were plentiful as Roscommon County Council announced the results of this year's Greener Spaces Competition.

The awards, now in their third year, are designed to recognise dedication and excellence in maintaining and improving the local environment, through climate action, biodiversity and environmental stewardship.

And among this year's winners were Curraghboy NS, Feevagh NS (Dysart) and Moore Tidy Towns, who along with their fellow award winners picked up their prizes at a ceremony in Roscommon Arts Centre on Thursday, December 4.

There were also winning prizes for Portrun Development Association, which claimed the Best Overall Large Space Award for its work on the banks of Lough Ree, and Athleague Tidy Towns as this year's Best New Entry winner.

Those nominated were recognised for their efforts in sustainability, biodiversity, pollinator-friendly actions, litter management, and overall maintenance of outdoor spaces.

Schools and community groups involved in the upkeep of school grounds, community gardens, housing estates, burial grounds and other community spaces were invited to enter the competition to showcase their achievements.

In the 'Action for Pollinators for burial grounds' category, Moore New Cemetery, managed by the local Tidy Towns Group, were successful while the Litter Less Award went to Feevagh NS. The Environmental Impact Award was won by Curraghboy NS. In total, awards were presented to eight schools and eight community groups. The competition focused a wide range of criteria, namely the appearance and presentation of outdoor spaces, litter control, sustainability, enhancing biodiversity and actions for pollinators in schools and communities.

Cllr Liam Callaghan, Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, said the awards are acknowledgement of the dedication of local communities who take part annually.areas

“These awards reflect all that is best in our communities who are the beating heart of our county. The work of Tidy Towns groups is reflective of the major work undertaken by groups supporting people in their community in a wide variety of ways, ensuring people feel valued and cherished.

“By organising competitions like this, Roscommon County Council encourages communities and schools to take an interest in their local environment, to have pride in its appearance and help build a strong community spirit. Protection of our environment and natural resources is vital for all our futures,” said the Cathaoirleach.

Chief Executive of Roscommon County Council Shane Tiernan paid tribute to the many estates, cemetery groups and schools who supported the awards, which he noted, was now an established event in highlighting environmental awareness in the county.

Environmental Education and Awareness Officer with Roscommon County Council Jonathan Jones said the Green Spaces Awards, though only in their third year, have grown and expanded significantly since their inception:

“I’m very encouraged by the level of support for this competition, which incentivise and reward schools and communities for best environmental standards. It is hugely significant that our communities and schools are championing best environmental practices in so many ways, encouraging family, friends and classmates to follow suit in pursuit of healthy, clean and living communities.

“I wish to commend all entrants and thank them for their hard work and dedication,” said Mr. Jones.

The Greener Spaces Awards are supported by the Environment section of Roscommon County Council with the support of the local authority’s Biodiversity Officer.