Hauliers bring fuel debate to Killarney

Killarney will take centre stage in the national debate over rising fuel costs next month as the Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) gathers for its Annual Conference at the Gleneagle Hotel on Friday, September 4, and Saturday, September 5.

Thousands of transport operators and hauliers from across Ireland are expected to attend the two-day event, which takes place as the industry faces increasing regulatory pressures and potential cuts to government fuel supports.
Senior political leaders are scheduled to address the conference. Minister for Climate, Environment, Energy and Transport Darragh O’Brien TD, alongside Minister of State Seán Canney TD, will address delegates at Saturday evening’s gala dinner. Other political speakers over the weekend include Michael Healy-Rae TD, MEP Cynthia Ní Mhurchú, Carol Nolan TD, and Sean Kelly MEP.
IRHA President Ger Hyland warned that any government plans to unwind existing fuel supports would place severe pressure on hauliers and the wider economy.
“The attendance of both Ministers with responsibility for transport underlines the importance of the issues facing our industry. Hauliers are once again dealing with rising fuel prices at a time when operating costs remain exceptionally high. We believe now is not the time to withdraw fuel supports, and that message will be delivered directly to Government during our conference,” Hyland said.
“Any decision to wind down fuel supports at this time would drive inflation and have a severe impact on households and families across the country who would see higher food, and transport costs – driving the cost of living crisis to unsustainable levels. Adding 30 cents back onto a litre of fuel will mean that many haulage businesses simply will not make it to Christmas.”

Massive vintage truck display at Gleneagle

Alongside the policy discussions inside, one of the country’s largest public commercial vehicle displays will take place outside the Gleneagle Hotel on Friday, September 4, and Saturday, September 5.
The outdoor exhibition will feature a major display of vintage trucks celebrating Ireland’s rich haulage heritage, while leading manufacturers and suppliers will showcase the latest heavy goods vehicles, trailers, and cutting-edge transport technology. The display will be open for public viewing across both days.

Push to protect Killarney bathing spots

Lochanna Beo is urging local swimmers and water enthusiasts to help identify popular bathing spots across Killarney’s lakes and rivers as part of a Kerry County Council public consultation.

The group is seeking official designation for heavily used local locations, including Dundag, Rosie’s Beach, and Colleen Bawn Rock on Muckross Lake, alongside Ross Bay and Victoria Bay on Lough Leane, to ensure they receive enhanced protection, safety infrastructure like life rings, and regular water quality monitoring under EU and Irish standards.
Highlighting the importance of official recognition, Valerie Harrington of Lochanna Beo said:
“Popular swimming spots in Killarney and local rivers deserve the extra protection, recognition and facilities that official designation can provide.”
Members of the public can submit their nominated bathing areas directly to Kerry County Council by emailing environ@kerrycoco.ie, writing to the Environment Department on Maine Street, Tralee, or contacting Lochanna Beo via lochannabeo.regening.ie.

The deadline for submissions is September 25.