Sir, - In reply to David Slined (July 24th), who wondered if the relevant authorities would consider planting fruit trees in housing estates as a means of fostering community spirit, we would like to relay the following:
Partnership Tra Li, a community development organisation, is currently working in conjunction with Tralee Urban District Council and residents of a new housing estate to develop an estate orchard project.
This project is an exciting, innovative way of involving residents of the estate in planning and managing the creation of a community orchard of fruit- and nut-bearing trees and bushes. It also is an opportunity for residents to work in partnership with their local authority.
It is hoped that this project will enable the community to take ownership of its environment and also act as a catalyst for residents to work together on issues relevant to their area.
At our last meeting some adult residents reflected with fondness on the local orchard of their youth. Hopefully this generation will hold equally good memories of their involvement with their estate orchard project! - Yours, etc.,
Caroline Toal, Environment and Infrastructure Officer, Seosaimhin O'Halloran, Community Development Officer, Partnership Tra Li, Tralee, Co Kerry.