New award scheme for local litter pickers

A new scheme of awarding those in the community who go above and beyond regular volunteering for the betterment of their local areas is to be considered by Cavan County Council. The suggestion, put forward by way of motion by Fine Gael's Winston Bennett at the recent December monthly meeting, could be incorporated into the existing Estate Awards, or the Green Kilometre Scheme.

Cllr Bennett had asked that the local authority introduce the awards for individuals or groups that pick litter on a daily or weekly basis, and that the recognition should be confined to within each Municipal District.

"It shouldn't have to happen, but it does happen," said Cllr Bennett of the constant effort by many across Cavan in clearing up litter in their own local areas on a regular basis.

The motion was seconded by fellow party member, Carmel Brady, who thought such formal acknowledgement as "very worthwhile".

In the Cootehill area she said there were several people who came to mind immediately.

Cllr Madeleine Argue (FG) also thought it a "great idea", with support too from Aontú's Sarah O'Reilly, Peter McVitty (FG), Patricia Walsh (FF) and TP O'Reilly (FG).

Cathoirleach Clifford Kelly took it that support for the proposal was "unanimous" within the chamber.