Primary students spread the word on environmental issues

Minister of State at the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources Seán Power TD, today visited Churchtown NS to present the students there with a Green Flag for excellence in the implementation of an environmental awareness initiative – The Green Schools Programme.

The Green Schools Programme is an international initiative which is coordinated by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). The Irish strand of the Programme is administered by An Taisce Education. It aims to educate primary school students about important environmental issues, including waste, energy and water supply, and encourages them to disperse this knowledge among their peers and adults in the wider community. Schools which have achieved particular distinction in their operation of the programme are awarded a Green Flag.

Speaking as he awarded the Green Flag to Churchtown NS, Minister Power stated, “Raising awareness is crucial, and a number of communities are taking the initiative. For example last week in Newbridge, I launched a series of talks to mark World Environment Day. Students are now following suit.

Since its launch in 1997, the Green Schools Initiative has developed at an exponential rate. Over 70% of the primary schools in Ireland are participating and a number of these schools that have excelled have been awarded a “Green Flag”. I am delighted to see such success being replicated in my native Kildare. The voices of the younger generation can have just as much influence as older generations, yet too often they go unheard. To instil a sense of environmental awareness and pride in one’s surroundings is important and I’m sure that the children taking part nationwide are spreading the message throughout their communities - just as the pupils here in Churchtown are.

Congratulations to the students, teachers, and parents here in Churchtown, for all of their hard work, which has earned the school this prestigious award today.”

-ENDS-

For further information, please contact:

Press Office
Department of Communications, Energy &
Natural Resources

T:          01 6782441
E.mail:  press.office@dcenr.gov.ie