Media Release
Tuesday, 30 September 2025
Minister Dara Calleary congratulates the towns of Maynooth and Terryglass on their achievements when representing Ireland in the 2025 Entente Florale European competition
Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, today (Tuesday, 30 September 2025) congratulated the towns of Maynooth and Terryglass, together with their TidyTowns Groups, on their fantastic achievements in this year’s Entente Florale Europe competition which took place over the weekend in Velenje, Slovenia.
Terryglass (County Tipperary) and Maynooth (County Kildare) and their TidyTowns Groups received Gold Medal and Special Characteristic Awards. Maynooth was also awarded the ‘President’s Prize’ for its Climate Adapted House.
Both groups were nominated by the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht to represent Ireland in this prestigious European environmental competition, which this year celebrated its 50th anniversary. The Department provided funding and support to both entrants and was represented at the awards ceremony which took place in Velenje on Saturday 27th September.
Minister Calleary said:
“What a fantastic achievement this is for Ireland. My department was delighted to nominate Maynooth and Terryglass to represent Ireland in this prestigious competition. Both groups are consistent high achievers in the SuperValu TidyTowns competition and have now also excelled on the European stage. This is the second year both Irish entries have been awarded Gold Medals – following on from Carlow and Ballinahown’s success in the 2024 competition.
The Minister concluded:
“I am also delighted with Entente Florale’s confirmation that Carlow Town has been selected to host the 2026 Entente Florale Europe awards in September of 2026. My department will provide funding and work closely with Carlow County Council on this exciting endeavour. We will work together and with our TidyTowns Groups to ensure the community spirit and civic pride that Ireland is renowned for is again highlighted on the international stage. We expect to welcome delegates from all participating European countries to Carlow next year.
“I am delighted to confirm that Riverstown, Co. Sligo and Blackrock, Co. Louth will represent Ireland in the 2026 competition and preparations are already underway to continue Ireland’s success.”