Wicklow County Council, in partnership with the Greystones Sports Sustainability Development Clubs, hosted the launch of the Greystones Sports Sustainability Development Charter on Thursday, 23rd October 2025, at Greystones Rugby Club.
The event brought together sports clubs from across the Greystones Municipal District, including Greystones, Delgany, Kilcoole, Newcastle and Killincarrig, to celebrate their shared commitment to climate action and sustainability in sports.
The evening began with a welcoming address from Greystones Rugby Club President, Liam Murphy, who warmly greeted all guests and participating clubs. This was followed by speeches from Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, Cllr. Melanie Corrigan and Cathaoirleach of Greystones Municipal District, Cllr. Lourda Scott. Both commended the initiative and the collective leadership demonstrated by the Greystones sporting community.
Dr Rob Mooney and Olive Farrell then presented the Greystones Sports Sustainability Development Charter, outlining the goals, commitments, and actions that local sports clubs are undertaking to promote environmental responsibility and community engagement. Guest speaker Míde Ní Shúilleabháin, GAA Green Programme Advisor, shared insights on how sports can inspire positive environmental and social change across Ireland.
Clubs such as Éire Óg Greystones GAA, Greystones Tennis Club, Greystones United AFC and Greystones Scouts presented their own sustainability journeys, highlighting practical actions being taken at the local level to reduce waste, protect biodiversity and support community well-being.
Three new community collective initiatives were also announced during the evening:
The Greystones Sports Sustainable Energy Community
A commitment to the Greystones Coffee Cup Disposable Scheme
The Greystones Biodiversity Trail
Each of these projects aims to strengthen connections between sport, energy, nature and community life while promoting collaboration on climate action.
Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, Cllr. Melanie Corrigan stated: “The launch of the Greystones Sports Sustainability Development Charter marks an inspiring milestone for both the Greystones District and County Wicklow. It highlights how collaboration, community spirit and local leadership can transform the principles of sustainability into real, tangible action. Through this Charter, our sports clubs are demonstrating that climate action begins at the community level, with people working together to protect our environment, strengthen our communities, and create a more resilient future for all.”
Cathaoirleach of Greystones Municipal District Cllr. Lourda Scott remarked: “The Greystones Sports Sustainability Development Charter captures the spirit of our community's teamwork, vision and commitment to positive change. While we may wear different colours on the pitch, we are united off it by shared green goals. My thanks go to Olive Farrell for her leadership and to all who have contributed to making this inspiring collaboration a reality.”
Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council Emer O’Gorman added: “The Greystones Sports Sustainability Development Clubs are a perfect example of how local action can shape a better future. By linking sport with energy, biodiversity, and community engagement, this initiative shows how grassroots leadership can deliver on our Climate Action Plan and make Wicklow a model for sustainable development.”
Speaking on behalf of the project team, Olive Farrell said: “The idea behind this Charter was simple—harness the unifying power of sport to make a positive impact on our environment and our community. Tonight’s launch illustrates what can be achieved when clubs, volunteers and local leaders come together with a shared purpose and determination. This Charter represents more than just a document; it’s a living commitment to action, collaboration and change. Together, we are building a stronger, greener and more connected Greystones for future generations.”
The event was organised in partnership between Wicklow County Council and the Greystones Sports Sustainability Development Clubs, with support from the Council’s Climate Action Team and the Greystones Climate Action Committee.