Cork School Garden Competition Launched

The Cork Schools Garden Competition was officially Launched today by Dr.Mary Stack of Cork County Council Environmental Awareness and Research Unit at Griffins Garden Centre Dripsy.
The competition which is organised by Muintir na Tire is now in its fourth year has gone from strength to strength with over 40 entries last year.

Dr Stack said that awareness and the promotion of upcycling and biodiversity are key elements of the Councils Environmental strategy going forward to 2020 and that the Cork School Garden competition  fits all the boxes with regard to the environment

Conor Nelligan Heritage Officer Cork County Council said the competition gave students a chance to interact with the environment and nature in a positive way. He stressed the importance of every one doing their bit to protect our native bees by providing a place for them in our gardens both at home and in school.

Deputy County Mayor Councillor Kevin Conway praised the co-operation between Cork County Federation Muintir na Tire, Cork County Council and Griffins Garden Centre in organising the competition. He said the aims of the Cork Schools Competition' in supporting pupils, teachers in County Cork to bring nature, wildlife, plants and colour into their school garden/grounds was bearing fruit as many schools around County Cork were now developing gardens to grow vegetables and flowers.

Mr Sean Holland Chairman of the Organising Team thanked Cork County Council and thanked Miriam and Margaret of Griffins Garden Centre for hosting the launch. Miriam said if schools need any advice they would be willing to help.

Teachers and pupils from Scoil Chroi Iasa Blarney and Aghabullogue National School were on hand to help Mickey Mouse with the launch. Mickey Mouse was keen to point out chemicals, pesticides and herbicides endangered all small animals and that natural methods were much better for our environment.