Recycled Christmas tree gets green light

WHAT may turn out to be the country’s most spectacular Christmas tree was switched on in Limerick’s O’Connell Street last night.

Although dubbed ‘green’ and ‘environmentally friendly’, it is made of metal with lights piped along its conical outline.

Much of the metal in the 15m-high tree was recycled from the demolished sections of Thomond Park, cleared away for the new €40 million stadium presently under construction.

Meanwhile, the tree lighting itself is also environmentally friendly being powered by a turbine driven by a wheel on top.

Environment Minister John Gormley, who was present for the switching on of the lights, praised the initiative in getting an environmentally friendly tree using low-cost energy.

Limerick City Council and the Limerick Business Association have joined forces to increase the street lighting for Christmas at a cost in excess of €200,000.

Mayor Ger Fahy said: “The tree looks spectacular and it will be a great focus for city centre shopping over the coming weeks. Great credit is due to all who have been involved. The city council decided to lead by example with a green tree.”

The Moyross-based company, Speedline Engineering, were responsible for constructing Limerick’s cone in the sky tree.

Eleanor O’Brien, of the business association, said: “The standard of the night lights is just amazing and we are very grateful for the support we have received from our members.”