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‘People are going through torture knowing they may go blind while waiting for op’

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Deputy Michael Healy-Rae.

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KERRY TD Michael Healy-Rae branded as “torture” the situation endured by Kerry people waiting for a cataract operation. He also said the fact that they could not avail of the operation in their home county was “outrageous”.

Some 125 people are currently waiting for a cataract operation in Kerry at present with a further 476 people awaiting the operation in Cork, he noted. "The torture people are going through knowing that may go blind while waiting is placing an unbearable tragic burden on families," said Deputy Healy-Rae.

Currently there is no cataract surgery carried out in University Hospital Kerry and all referrals are submitted to South Infirmary Hospital Cork for assessment, he said.
“When referrals are received they are triaged by the consultants and are either placed directly on the cataract waiting list or on the outpatient list for assessment. Cork University Hospital currently manages the outpatients department for all of Cork and Kerry,” said the Kerry TD.

In a recent Dáil Question to the Minister for Health Michael Healy Rae asked the Minister to clarify how many people are currently waiting for a Cataract Operation in Kerry and could the Minister clarify how long people are waiting for this vital procedure, which came to 601. "In the recent weeks 190 patients have been given a date for surgery in the New Year and 65 patients who have been on the list for more the 18 months have been outsourced for a cataract operation privately and while this will reduce the list a little, there will be more people added again in the New Year once they have been assessed,” said Deputy Healy-Rae.

He added: “It is outrageous that operations are not be carried out in Co Kerry and that people have to travel to Cork for an operation so I call on the Minister to look into this matter urgently."

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Incredible value at Paco warehouse clearance

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Paco Clothing is to open a second shop at the Killarney Outlet Centre for March and April – and the fantastic news for customers is that there will be some astonishing bargains to be availed of.



Paco will have a massive warehouse stock clearance in the temporary shop with ladies and men’s fashion tops, trousers, fleeces, jackets and so much more clearing from as little as €9.99.

They will also be selling stylish and popular Regatta outdoor tops at 70% off the recommended retail price.

The temporary pop-up store opens this Thursday, March 5th, at 10.00am and it will remain open until the May Bank Holiday weekend.

Paco has established a great reputation for being a one-stop-shop for really classy fashion with some of the major brands in stock to ensure customers can avail of great quality as well as great prices.

Now is the ideal time to stock up your wardrobe for spring and summer and the team at Paco can advise you on the best options to ensure you look and feel your best in the weeks and months ahead.

True style is about choosing what you love and you’re sure to find that at Paco and, better still, there are massive discounts to be availed of.

Hugely popular brands stocked include Paco, Paco Active, Just Elegance, Regatta, Mudflower and Paco Man and the prices really will have to be seen to be believed

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Tourism Ireland CEO Outlines Global Strategy at KTIF Tourism Day

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The CEO of Tourism Ireland, Alice Mansergh, was in Killarney on Tuesday of this week to address tourism leaders from across the county at the Kerry Tourism Industry Federation (KTIF) Tourism Day 2026.

The event, held at The Brehon Hotel & Spa, brought together a broad range of representatives from Kerry’s business community, including accommodation providers, visitor attractions, and transport services.


As a membership organisation representing tourism operators throughout the county, KTIF provides a unified voice for the sector.

During her address, Ms Mansergh outlined overseas market performance and emerging travel trends, focusing specifically on how Kerry can capitalise on international opportunities.


The morning featured a diverse line-up of speakers, including Kerry County Council Chief Executive Fearghal Reidy, who spoke on infrastructure and sustainable growth, and Miriam Kennedy, Head of the Wild Atlantic Way at Fáilte Ireland.

Technology and the economy were also central themes, with RDI Hub CEO Fergal Brosnan discussing AI and digital transformation, while global financial expert Mike O’Sullivan provided insights into international economic conditions.

Writer and publican Billy Keane also addressed the gathering, highlighting the cultural role of the Irish pub in the visitor experience.


KTIF Chairperson Pat O’Leary said the diversity of speakers reflects the interconnected nature of the industry: “Tourism in Kerry is not one single sector — it is a network of businesses and communities working together. From international marketing and economic forecasting to innovation and the unique role of our publicans, today’s discussions highlight how every element contributes to the strength of our tourism product. With representation from all regions, chambers and businesses of every scale in the county, KTIF ensures that the voice is unified and influential.”


The discussions focused on sustainability and community resilience, with significant attention given to upcoming international opportunities like the Ryder Cup 2027.

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