A LOCAL school has been praised for its “continued commitment to protecting our environment”. The chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, Michael Savage, was speaking during a visit to Cumran Primary School in Clough. “Cumran Primary School is an inspirational Ambassador EcoSchool which has renewed their ‘Eco-Schools’ green flag nine times, a remarkable achievement,” said Cllr Savage. “I would like to congratulate principal Mrs Moles, eco teacher Mrs Brown, and all the pupils and staff for their continued commitment to protecting our environment.” During his visit the council chairperson handed over a set of litter pickers to the school’s eco committee. The pupils at the local school are proactively taking a stand against litter in their area and are keen to get moving on organising litter picks. A spokesperson for the district council explained that this month it is distributing these specially designed litter pickers, which are easier for children to use, to primary schools throughout the district. “The council works closely with primary schools in the area to promote positive environmental campaigns,” the spokesperson added. “Many of the schools request litter pickers to assist in tackling litter and to help them participate in annual events such as the Big Spring Clean. “This year we have purchased a supply of litter pickers which have been specially designed for use by children aged 7 to 11 years old. “Our Sustainability section is currently distributing a set of ten free to every primary school in the district throughout October.” Cllr Savage said the district council appreciates that “one of the best ways to tackle the issue of litter now and in the future, is to educate our younger generation about it”. He continued: “Children with a strong awareness of the consequences to dropping litter become adults who do everything they can to dispose of their litter properly, looking after our environment, community and world.” Teacher Mrs Brown said Cumran Primary School is delighted to receive new litter pickers from the council. “I have no doubt that our ecocommittee will make great use of them as we work towards obtaining our tenth Eco-Schools Green Flag,” she added.
