National Tidy Towns Competition 2019 launched in Dunboyne
The 2019 SuperValu TidyTowns competition is now welcoming entries following the launch of the competition in the grounds of Dunboyne Castle Hotel this morning (28th March). Now entering its seventh decade, the competition, which is administered by the Department of Rural and Community Development and sponsored by SuperValu, continues to act as a catalyst for voluntary activity and community participation across the country.
Speaking at the launch of the 2019 competition this morning, the Minister for Rural and Community Development, Michael Ring, said: “The dedication and commitment shown by generations of volunteers and community groups throughout the TidyTowns competition’s 60 year history is extraordinary. The efforts of these TidyTowns committees have made Ireland’s towns and villages not only attractive and welcoming for visitors, but have created a ‘sense of place’ for those who live and work and raise families there.”
Minister Ring continued: “With 60 years behind us and looking forward to the next 60 years, we see the competition going from strength to strength. Last year, as we celebrated the 60th anniversary of TidyTowns, a record 883 communities entered the competition.”
“I am extremely proud of the role my Department plays in this competition and I would also like to say a particular thanks to SuperValu for their continuing efforts to maintain its success. Now in their 28th year as the main sponsors, SuperValu have helped to grow the competition to where it is today by getting involved locally through their nationwide network of retailers.”
Martin Kelleher, Managing Director of SuperValu, said: “SuperValu is delighted to partner with the TidyTowns competition for the 28th year. People take massive pride in their community and are coming together more than ever before to make their town or village even more picturesque.
“As our retailers live and work in their local community, they step up to play their part and are involved in TidyTowns committees right across the country. It’s particularly encouraging to see more initiatives aimed at making their communities more sustainable places to live, such as the project in Westport which aims to eradicate plastic straws in the town.
Last year the competition saw record numbers of committees participating and I am confident that the SuperValu TidyTowns competition will reach a new high point this year. I am calling on volunteers across the country to get involved and make 2019 an unforgettable year.”
In addition to the main competition, there is an increased number of Special Awards for 2019. Welcoming these awards, Minister Ring said: “I would like to thank all the sponsors of the Special Awards for their support over the years and to welcome some new sponsors on board. The number of Special Awards, such as the Pollinator Award and the Community Climate Action and Air Quality Award, shows the ever increasing appeal the SuperValu TidyTowns competition has. These awards add to the competition and I would like to encourage participants in the main competition to consider entering some of the other award categories as well. Full details of the Special Awards are available on the TidyTowns website, www.tidytowns.ie.”
The closing date for receipt of entries for this year’s competition is Friday 17th May 2019. Entry forms to the SuperValu TidyTowns competition can be obtained from the TidyTowns Unit in the Department of Rural and Community Development (Phone: 076 100 6912) or by visiting www.tidytowns.ie or www.supervalu.ie.