Kilkenny has once again shown its community spirit as the “Let’s Team Up to Clean Up – Together for Kilkenny” weekend which took place from Friday 19th to Sunday 21st September 2025. The initiative, which is led by Kilkenny County Council, is sponsored by Tírlán/Glanbia, PRL, PANDA, Dawn Meats and the John O’Shea Trust.
Over the three days, 89 registered organisations came together with schools, businesses, and volunteers to make a real difference across the county. Bags of litter were collected from roadsides, estates and green spaces, leaving Kilkenny cleaner, safer and more welcoming.
This year also saw the initiative align with the Green Schools programme for a second year, introducing a composting and recycling awareness programme in local schools. On Friday, September 19th, students rolled up their sleeves to lead the way, combining classroom-based learning with hands-on clean-ups.
Cllr. Mary Hilda Cavanagh, Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, praised the success of the weekend, “The response from communities right across Kilkenny has been truly inspiring. From our schools to our TidyTown groups, sports clubs and residents’ associations, everyone played their part. The impact was visible immediately, but the real achievement lies in the sense of pride and ownership this has sparked in our communities.”
Lar Power, Chief Executive of Kilkenny County Council, said “The scale of participation this year shows how deeply people value Kilkenny’s clean and green reputation. The weekend was not only about tackling litter but about embedding sustainable habits that will carry forward. Every group, from the smallest school to the largest business, has contributed to a healthier environment and a stronger community. On behalf of Kilkenny County Council, I want to sincerely thank all our volunteers who participated and who made the weekend the success it is.”
Paul Nolan, Dawn Meats, added “We were delighted once again to support this fantastic initiative. Seeing so many volunteers out in force highlights the power of collective action. Sustainability is at the core of our work, and this weekend gave us a chance to put those values into practice in partnership with our local communities.”
Naoise Coogan, Glanbia, commented “The connection with the Green Schools programme and the composting and recycling education this year is a real step forward. By involving young people, we are not just cleaning up today but helping to shape a cleaner, more sustainable tomorrow.”
With litter kits and safety gear distributed to all registered groups, the event ran smoothly across the county. Volunteers of all ages contributed to cleaner streets and greener spaces, reinforcing Kilkenny’s reputation as one of Ireland’s tidiest counties. Over the last 3 years since this initiative began, approximately 28 tonnes of rubbish has been collected.
The 2025 edition of “Let’s Team Up to Clean Up” has once again proven that when Kilkenny comes together, the results are lasting, visible, and transformative.
