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Michael Healy-Rae leads tree planting at Eurofound to mark Agency’s 50th anniversary
In advance of International Day of Forests on 21 March, Michael Healy-Rae TD, Minister of State for Forestry, Horticulture and Farm Safety, planted signature native Irish tree species at Eurofound today to mark the Agency’s 50th anniversary, as well as continued efforts as part of National Tree Week to highlight the vital role of Ireland’s trees, forests, and woodlands in building a greener, more sustainable future.
Minister Healy-Rae met with Eurofound staff, as well as local schoolchildren from St. Columbanus National School in Loughlinstown at the event. 50 Irish Bird Cherry, Scots Pine and Silver Birch trees were planted to commemorate Eurofound’s five decades of supporting better policies for a strong social Europe.
The tree planting is part of Ireland’s National Tree Week. Eurofound partnered with Crann - Trees for Ireland for the occasion. Several events have been organised across the country to promote the #ForOurPlanet campaign, and the #3BillionTrees Pledge from the European Commission.
Commenting following the ceremony, Minister Healy-Rae noted that trees are planted to mark significant moments, and it was an apt occasion to reflect on the growth of Eurofound as an organisation, ‘Eurofound is scientific, and produces evidence-based, well-researched information, by a team of dedicated individuals; this work is supported by this government and throughout the rest of Europe.’
When speaking with local schoolchildren, Minister Healy-Rae also emphasised that evidence-based information was vital to navigate the digital age and combat misinformation.
Reflecting on the ceremony, Eurofound Executive Director Ivailo Kalfin said, ‘We were very pleased to be joined by Minister Healy-Rae and our partners in Crann for this event, as well as to branch out once again and connect with the local community. This event was not only about marking 50 years of Eurofound but also looking to our development and growth into the future.’
More information:
- Eurofound 50: Building on the past – Shaping the future
- Eurofound Talks: 50 years of social change in Ireland and Europe
- National Tree Week
Forthcoming Irish-based events:
