“This planting at Kerry Education and Training Board’s Castleisland Community College campus shows what can be achieved by any public body willing to take that first step. From a small Native Tree Area to a public-amenity NeighbourWood or a Mixed High Forest for long-term timber production, every site has potential, and every organisation is entitled to access to the full suite of options. My Department is here to help each step of the way. I am delighted that Kerry ETB are leading the way on our Planting on Public Lands initiative, which I launched in July. Since then, my Department has started working with more than 30 public bodies nationwide to bring forward planting proposals. I would strongly encourage any organisation with even a small parcel of land to contact us - we stand ready to assist with full guidance through the application and planting process.”

“Castleisland Community College is delighted to announce the inclusion of a new native woodland on our school grounds, a project that reflects our strong commitment to sustainability and biodiversity. The woodland is fully funded by the Department under the Native Tree Area Scheme. By planting this native woodland, we are not only enhancing the natural beauty of our school grounds but also contributing to national efforts to restore habitats and support pollinators. This project reinforces our vision of creating a greener future for generations to come.”

“When you turn an unused corner of public lands into a space with trees, people notice the benefits right away. It softens the landscape, attracts birds and wildlife, and helps capture carbon in areas that were not doing much. This initiative makes it so easy for public organisations to get involved with clear plans and professional management from the start. It is a straightforward way to get more from public land for communities, nature, and the climate.”