Dublin Labour MEP Emer Costello rolled up her sleeves to help with the annual Dodder cleanup.

Running from Donnybrook to Tallaght, the day of action will see droves of volunteers blitz the river free of debris and rubbish.

"I am delighted to play my part in this volunteer-led initiative. Running through the heartland of South Dublin, the Dodder is not just a scenic amenity but is also home to many trout, salmon and mandarin ducks. Sadly the state of the river leads a lot to be desired and it’s necessary that the community pitches in to remove litter which is not only potentially dangerous to its wildlife but also an eyesore.

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"More than giving it a spruce-up, the River Dodder is critically underused green zone in the city and a long-term development plan is needed. I am supporting plans for a linear park to run along the river. A landscaping acquisition order must also be considered to guarantee permanent public access. European environmental funding can play an integral part in putting this plan into action, and I will be working with my European colleagues to see if funds can be obtained."

(CD/IT)