Dundalk win heralded “a major team effort” by town and county officials
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 Dundalk Arts Office |
Dundalk’s announcement as the ‘cleanest town in Ireland’ has been described as a massive and timely boost to the region and a major team effort which will reap rewards.
Its proud new title as the Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL) ‘Cleanest Town in Ireland’ is testament to the consistent work which has gone into keeping the town and its approach roads litter free, town and county officials say.
Dundalk was pipped into second place last year by overall winners, Fermoy. Interim survey results in June ranked Dundalk as ‘litter free’ yet again and in seventh place nationally, Dundalk Town Council Chairman, Jim D’Arcy said.
“We were happy to be recognised as litter free and up there among the best with past winners such as Fermoy, Carlow and Cavan. We knew from our past performances that we were in with a chance of scooping this coveted prize.
“A massive, extra effort went into keeping the town clean and tidy and targeting specific resources where they were needed. That work has paid off in abundance today.
“We commend our own staff and the consistent effort of businesses, schools, community groups and individuals that all went into helping Dundalk achieve this award,” Cllr D’Arcy said.
Competition for the IBAL League title is intense and Dundalk will be anxious to emulate its performance in 2008, according to Dundalk town Clerk, Frank Pentony. “This win is a huge boost for Dundalk town and it is a victory which will help further boost the town’s image as a progressive, inclusive and forward-looking town at a time when it is undergoing unprecedented change and development.
“The league table since these awards began in 2002 show that towns such as Dundalk, Fermoy, Carlow and Cavan have consistently ranked very highly. We have consistently improved our ranking, climbing from 25th place in 2004 to 4th place in 2005 and second place last year.
“All of the top ranking towns will be snapping at our heels for this award in 2008. This success is a massive boost. But we can not be complacent. We will celebrate this win but the work towards the 2008 award has to begin again today.
“We have dedicated further finances in our 2008 budget for litter management and these funds will again be put to the best possible use for the benefit of the town,” Mr Pentony vowed.
Louth County Manager, Conn Murray, said the national award win is a very timely boost for the entire region. “Having a clean, green environment has a significant impact on our economic prosperity. It helps boost investment, tourism and our reputation as a great place to live and work.
“It is also a particularly timely and significant boost as we bid for our share of the €300 million Gateway Innovation Fund. Part of this plan includes provision of an ‘eco neighbourhood’ which will comprise of 8,000 high-quality environmentally friendly homes south west of Dundalk town,” Mr Murray said.