Hackett highlights Killaun Bog as 'a shining light'

Killaun Bog, near Birr, has been highlighted in Seanad Éireann by Minister Pippa Hackett as a shining example of a community working together for nature.

The Minister recently attended an event hosted by St Brendan’s Community School in Birr to mark the re-launch of the boardwalk, 30 years after former President Mary Robinson originally launched it.

“The story of Killaun Bog is a shining light for so many other communities across the country who are passionate about protecting nature, preserving what is there, and where possible, restoring it back to its former glory,” she told the Seanad.

“There are some who wish to continue to plunder our natural resources. I want to champion those who want to protect them.”

During the evening the Minister met with Mick Spain, one of the people who laid the original boardwalk, and local botanist John Feehan, who was launching his latest book entitled 'When the Nightjar Returns' about the history of Killaun Bog and its rich habitat.

Quoting Mr Feehan in the Seanad, Minister Hackett described Killaun Bog as “a rainforest on our doorstep”.

She also paid tribute to the students of St Brendan’s CS who have shown their deep understanding and appreciation of nature, climate action and biodiversity.

“This is so encouraging. And I have no doubt they will be the driving force for a brighter future. And let’s hope that one day, the Nightjar will indeed make its return to Killaun Bog,” Minister Hackett added.