Browne announces funding of €172,500 for NeighbourWood projects

Scheme will create healthy and enjoyable resource in urban areas

Dublin, Tuesday, 29 April 2003

Minister of State at the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, Mr. John Browne T.D., today approved funding of €172,500 for 10 different projects under the NeighbourWood Scheme.  The Scheme is funded by the Department under the National Development Plan 2000-2006, supported by the European Union.

Minister Browne said,This funding enables local authorities, community groups, environmental organisations and private woodland owners to work in partnership by planting trees and developing appropriate woodland amenities in and around our villages, towns and cities.  The need for such amenities has never been greater with the rapid expansion of Irelands urban centres.

The successful applicants in the current tranche are listed below.  A further announcement regarding other successful applications will be made in the coming weeks.

Minister Browne added, Initiatives such as the Woodland Scheme will contribute greatly to the development of sustainable, liveable and enjoyable environments for urban-based communities.  The Scheme will help create a healthy and enjoyable resource on the doorsteps of those living in our urban areas.

Ends.

For further information, please contact:

Richard Moore
Press Advisor
Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources
Leeson Lane
Dublin 2

Tel: +353-(0) 1-678-2440
Fax: +353-(0) 1-676-6161

Or

Tom Mc Loughlin
Press Officer
Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources
Leeson Lane
Dublin 2

Tel: +353-(0) 1-678-2441
Fax: +353-(0) 1-676-6161