Tidy Towns tribute to the Laois community on spring clean

The Tidy Town's 'Spring Clean' of Portarlington on Saturday 22 April was a success despite the terrible weather on the day.

The event took place at 29 different locations across the town and surrounding areas. 140 sacks of rubbish were collected.
Event organiser David Maher spoke about the event.

"This year the dates of the cleanup was more spreadout but the main event took place on Saturday 22 April. The difference it makes to the town is just huge and the fact we have been able to sustain and grow the event over the last 16 years is really a tribute to the great community spirit in Portarlington.

"Again this year the level of litter is much lower than it was say a decae ago - I would guess it is down about 70% of what we used to see - when we picked up to 400 sacks of rubbish on the day. So it is great to see some progress and an increase in civic pride in our lovely town.

"However illegal dumping still remains a very major issue and people continue to routinely throw rubbish out of their cars and vans - which is just unheard of is most European countries. Still we keep fighting the good fight and progress is definitely being made," he said.

A huge thanks were extended to Laois County Council and Bord Na Mona waste collection who had all the rubbish gone out of the collection point in the SOLAS car park by 9am on Monday morning.

“Very efficient,” said Mr Maher who Maher concluded: "On behalf of Portarlington Tidy Towns, I would express thanks to all those who came along on the day and to the businesses who supported the event and would encourage people to consider getting your area involved in next year's event," he said.

Communities right around the county participated in Clean Up Laois week.