2008-06-30 14:31:29 - 30 June 2008 - Limerick County Council today launched an initiative aimed at reducing the local authority's overall carbon footprint.

Staff are being given access to bicycles and umbrellas to cut the number of car journeys being made between the Council's two main buildings in Dooradoyle.

High visibility jackets and safety helmets are also provided to staff wishing to peddle their way between Lissanalta House and Limerick County Hall.

Welcoming the initiative, Councillor Kevin Sheahan, outgoing Cathaoirleach of Limerick County Council said,

'I fully support any scheme that actively promotes ways of reducing carbon emissions. Limerick County Council plays a central role in changing the mindset of people in County Limerick regarding energy use. Therefore, it is appropriate that the Council is itself leading by example by encouraging staff to embrace more environmentally-friendly modes of transport.'

Josephine Cotter Coughlan, Director of Services, commented, 'Like many people in Limerick, we have become too reliant on our cars. This initiative, however, aims to break the habit of using our cars all the time, especially for short journeys. A car journey from County Hall to Lissanalta House that can take up to 10-15mins at rush-hour now takes a couple of minutes by bicycle or less than five minutes on foot.'

-ENDS-

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