Sculpture unveiled in Ennis to mark Anti-Litter League success

Cllr. Michael Begley, Mayor of Clare today unveiled a sculpture in Ennis in recognition of the town’s achievement in topping the IBAL Anti-Litter League last year. Located in Abbey St car park, the striking public work called “Bláth na hÍnse” was designed and created by Conor and Paddy Murray of Kilkee Forge.

The centre point of the artwork is a giant Yellow Iris, a wildflower which grows along the River Fergus which also hints at the blooming of Ennis from a business, community and cultural aspect. The stem is constructed from mild steel and reaches 3.25m in height, with six petals in stainless steel and mirror polished to create the coloured effect. Three steel benches surround the Iris, which is illuminated by warm LED lights and ‘grows’ out of a flowerbed filled with wildflowers.

Mayor Begley commented, “Being named Ireland’s Cleanest Town to Ennis provided national recognition to the town’s residents, visitors, the local authority, businesses and voluntary groups who have a longstanding reputation for working together to keep the streets and public spaces free of litter. This sculpture is a lasting testament to this achievement and is a reminder of the immense pride of place that exists in communities right across Clare.”

Conor Horgan of Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL) commented: “From IBAL’s perspective, this wonderful sculpture has a twofold purpose. On the one hand it is a fitting celebration of the town’s achievement in winning our programme last year, and one which will enhance the local environment. In addition, and just as importantly, it stands as a permanent reminder and motivation to future generations in Ennis to maintain the high standards which the community attained in 2017.”

“With over 80% of towns nationwide now being deemed “clean” in the IBAL Anti-Litter League, it takes an exceptional effort to emerge as the top town. That can only be achieved when the local authority, businesses and residents come together in a concerted effort. This has clearly happened in Ennis.”

Pictured above (l to r) are Conor Horgan of IBAL; Cllr. Michael Begley, Mayor of Clare;  Pat Dowling, CEO, Clare County Council; Cllr. Clare Colleran Molloy, Mayor of Ennis; and artists Paddy and Conor Murray.