A NEW tidiness competition will see the four city parishes square off
with one another to be crowned ‘Best Parish’, and could boost the
city’s overall Tidy Towns chances as well. The competition, which is being backed by both local Roman Catholic and Church of Ireland clergy, is organised and run by Keep Kilkenny Beautiful.
It was launched on the Parade in Kilkenny City last Friday afternoon by the KKB chairman David Fitzgerald, and members Sean Leahy and Elaine Bradshaw.
They were joined by Fr Frank Purcell of St John’s, Monsignor Kieron Kennedy from St Mary’s, Fr Dan Carroll from St Patrick’s, and the Revd Tim Irvine of St Canice’s Cathedral.
“We are asking the priests of the city parishes to be involved and we want them to spread the word in their parishes as well,” said Mr Fitzgerald.
“KKB has members in each parish and they will be active.”
Things to target include derelict or unpainted buildings, dumping, general litter, and dog fouling. Judging categories will include overall tidiness, building maintenance, estates, litter control, and wildlife and natural amenities.
The judging panel will be checking in on areas around the city between June and August 31.
Shortly after this period, the best parish will be named.
The first prize (apart from the honour and parish bragging rights) will be 10 trees to plant in the area.