Tellus has won an award for Insight and Analysis at the inaugural Civil Service Excellence and Innovation awards, held at Dublin Castle on 3rd December 2015. Tellus was nominated by the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources in partnership with the Geological Survey of Ireland. The data collected by Tellus has had direct relevance for agricultural and environmental management in Ireland, enabling in particular, better management of health risks in the area of radon. It highlights the value of collaboration to develop scientific evidence for policy-making.

The Taoiseach, Mr. Enda Kenny T.D., and the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, Brendan Howlin T.D., hosted the awards which aimed to to publicly recognise staff excellence and innovation, and to celebrate impactful team initiatives in the Civil Service.

Presenting the awards in Dublin Castle, the Taoiseach said:-

“I am very pleased to have this opportunity to thank all the civil servants who contribute so much to Ireland’s social and economic well-being. The innovation, talent and enthusiasm of civil servants have made a positive and lasting impact on the public service as we work to keep the recovery going. Our next challenge is ensuring that the fruits of economic growth are spent correctly. For me, that means building an economy where everyone can share in the benefits. And it means focusing not just on how much we spend, but where we spend and who we spend on. Public service investment must focus on people who will benefit most from early intervention. We must invest early to save later.”

Minister Howlin said:-

“Today is a very proud day for everyone who participated in these awards. I think people will reflect on the huge contribution that the Civil Service is making to the country. The last number of years has been not without challenge and the work of civil servants has been of critical importance to navigating those difficult times. We are now emerging with confidence and again the Civil Service has a critical role to play. I wish to congratulate the award winners and all of the teams for participating and putting forward nominations.”

Speaking at the ceremony, Mr. Robert Watt, Secretary General of the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform said:-

“Today’s Awards recognise and showcase staff excellence and innovation in the Civil Service. Every day, civil servants make a vital contribution to Irish life and society and I am delighted to be here today to recognise our achievements”.

The award for Insight and Analysis was accepted on behalf of the Tellus team by Ray Scanlon, Mairéad Glennon and Shane Carey.