Key Highlights
- Carrick-on-Shannon in County Leitrim was named Ireland’s tidiest town at the SuperValu Tidy Towns competition.
- The competition, running since 1958 and sponsored by SuperValu since 1991, received its highest number of entries this year with 929 towns participating.
- Minister Dara Calleary expressed hope for further growth in the competition to over 1,000 participants next year.
- Carrick-on-Shannon’s overall win was attributed to their community efforts and innovative ideas, including a linear park along the River Shannon.
Community Pride and Environmental Excellence
The announcement of Carrick-on-Shannon as Ireland’s tidiest town marks not only an achievement for the local community but also highlights the dedication of over 30,000 volunteers who have been contributing to environmental initiatives across the country. The SuperValu Tidy Towns competition, which has been a cornerstone of rural and community development in Ireland since its inception in 1958, continues to inspire and engage local residents.
This year’s competition saw an unprecedented number of entries with 929 towns participating, setting a new record for the highest number of participants. Each town is assessed based on eight key criteria including community involvement, public spaces, sustainability, biodiversity, and litter control. The rigorous evaluation process ensures that only the most committed communities are recognized with awards.
Government Support and Future Plans
The competition, sponsored by SuperValu since 1991, is organized by the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht. Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary, expressed his satisfaction with this year’s outcome while also setting ambitious goals for the future. “I hope that we can continue to see a growth in the number of participants,” said Calleary, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and environmental stewardship.
According to Calleary, the pride shown by volunteers during the event at Croke Park reflects a broader national commitment to maintaining clean and green communities. He highlighted that around 20% of these volunteers are international residents who have chosen Ireland for their home, contributing their skills and talents to this important community effort.
Challenges and Successes
Carrick-on-Shannon’s overall win was the result of a dedicated team led by John Gaffey, Chairperson of Carrick-On Shannon Tidy Towns. He praised the town’s efforts in using floral displays, artists, and innovative ideas to stand out among competitors. The linear park along the River Shannon played a significant role in their success, attracting visitors from across Ireland.
Gaffey noted that the community’s commitment was not limited to beautification but extended to broader sustainability goals. “The pride and energy shown by our volunteers are truly inspiring,” he said. “We are seriously delighted with this recognition.”
Conclusion
A Long-Term Commitment to Tidiness
The SuperValu Tidy Towns competition continues to be a vital platform for promoting environmental awareness and community engagement in Ireland. As the country looks towards next year’s event, there is hope for continued growth and increased participation from towns eager to showcase their commitment to tidiness. The success of Carrick-on-Shannon serves as an example of what can be achieved through dedicated volunteer efforts and innovative approaches to maintaining a clean and green environment.
