As part of National Tree Week 2026, the Tree Council of Ireland celebrated its 40th anniversary with the planting of forty native oak trees at the historic Newbridge House and Farm, Co. Dublin.

The commemorative planting formed the centrepiece of the official launch of National Tree Week, where President Catherine Connolly joined representatives from the Tree Council of Ireland, Coillte, local authorities, environmental organisations, community groups, schools and partners from across the country to celebrate Ireland's largest tree celebration. National Tree Week 2026

President Connolly performed the ceremonial planting to mark both the beginning of National Tree Week and the Tree Council of Ireland's 40th anniversary. Forty native oak trees were planted, with each tree representing a year of the organisation's dedication to promoting tree planting, conservation, education and environmental awareness throughout Ireland. The event reflected the 2026 National Tree Week theme, "Growing a Greener Future Together," celebrating the power of partnership and community action in protecting and enhancing Ireland's natural heritage.

Oak was chosen for its enduring significance in Ireland's landscape and culture, symbolising strength, resilience and longevity. The planting has created a lasting living legacy within the grounds of Newbridge House, enhancing biodiversity and the historic landscape while commemorating four decades of the Tree Council of Ireland's work in inspiring communities to plant, protect and cherish trees.

The Forty Oaks for Forty Years project stands as a fitting tribute to the Tree Council of Ireland's achievements since its establishment in 1985 and its continued commitment to growing a greener future for generations to come.