2008-07-10 14:27:37 - Thursday, 10 July 2008 - Mr. Tony Killeen TD, Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (with responsibility for Forestry and Fisheries) this week urged the midwest's forest owners to participate in the RDS-Forest Service Irish Forestry Awards 2008.

The Awards represent a partnership between the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food and the RDS, and are intended to promote standards of excellence in the production of native forests and trees.

According to Minister Killeen, 'The RDS-Forest Service Irish Forestry Awards 2008 consist of two categories - Farm Forestry and Bio-Diverse Forestry/Woodlands. The Awards recognise and reward forest owners

who are employing the basic principles of sustainable forest management on their properties.'

The Clare T.D. added, 'I would encourage forest owners across the region to enter their plantations into the competition as it is an opportunity to have their hard work and commitment acknowledged. It is also an opportunity for the sharing of their experiences and knowledge with their counterparts'.

The launch of this year's Awards was held at Dalgan Park, Navan, Co. Meath, home to the Columban Order in Ireland who won the 2007 Bio-Diverse Forests/Woodlands Award.

Further details on the RDS-Forest Service Forestry Awards may be obtained from the RDS.

-ENDS-

Notes to Editor:
- Tony Killeen T.D., Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (with special responsibility for Fisheries and Forestry), is available for interview and further comment on 0035387-2525304. Alternatively please contact Mark Dunphy of Dunphy Public Relations on 00353868534900 or media@dunphypr.com
- High-resolution images of Minister Killeen are available

Mark Dunphy
Dunphy Public Relations
www.dunphypr.com
media@dunphypr.com
00353-868534900