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Bus to Belfast service back on the road

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BUS TO BELFAST: Kerry TD Danny Healy-Rae pictured with Ann McGillicuddy from Tiernaboul in November when news that the end of the Cross Border Directive in Northern Ireland became known. Photo: Michelle Crean

 

By Michelle Crean

The Bus to Belfast service under the Cross Border Directive which ceased operation on December 31 due to Brexit - is back under a new 12 month scheme.

Irish patients waiting for surgery in the Republic were able to obtain treatment in Northern Ireland under the scheme.
In early November the Killarney Advertiser reported that Deputy Danny Healy-Rae - who has been organising the bus trips to Kingsbridge Private Hospital in Belfast since November 2017 with Cork Independent TD Michael Collins - was "horrified" at the news.

This week, both Danny and his brother Deputy Micheal Healy-Rae welcomed the news that a new Northern Ireland Planned Healthcare Scheme, will operate on the same parameters as the EU Cross Border Directive scheme.

"Following my representations to the Taoiseach and the Government, I am glad that the arrangement has been put in place to ensure people can continue to travel to Belfast for procedures such as cataracts, hip, knee replacements, tonsil removal," Danny Healy-Rae told the Killarney Advertiser.

"The new scheme will operate for 12 months under the same terms as the EU Cross Border Directive Scheme. This is great news for those on long waiting lists for procedures. I am now taking names for the next bbus to travel to King’s Bridge Private Hospital in Belfast for medical procedures."

Michael also added that he's "thrilled that some creative thinking between both Governments have given us this window for 12 months".

"Last October in a heated debate in the Dáil on this matter, I told the Taoiseach to “cop on a small bit” and I am delighted that the Government have on this matter. While I would love to see these operations taking place within the State, and that still remains the goal, but for now an extra year will make a great deal of difference in a lot of people’s lives.”

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Generous public raises over €1,400 at Christmas Day Goal Mile

Organisers of the Killarney Goal Mile have extended their sincere thanks to the local community following an “overwhelmingly successful” event on Christmas Day. The annual fundraiser, which took place in […]

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Organisers of the Killarney Goal Mile have extended their sincere thanks to the local community following an “overwhelmingly successful” event on Christmas Day.

The annual fundraiser, which took place in the Killarney House and Gardens, saw a massive turnout of walkers and runners. Goal Ireland has officially acknowledged a total of €882.50 raised in cash on the day, with a further €535 donated through the online portal, bringing the combined total for the international aid agency to over €1,400.
In a statement of appreciation, Goal Ireland noted that the generosity shown in Killarney will help transform the lives of millions of vulnerable people in 2025. The funds will provide food, shelter, and safety for refugees in Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East. Locally, the money will also support street children in Ethiopia and provide training and tools for young entrepreneurs to support their communities.
Closer to home, Kerry Cancer Support Services also expressed deep gratitude to participants for their impressive generosity. Organiser Anne Mangan highlighted the vital role of the charity’s transport service, which is a primary beneficiary of the local collection.
“The transport service is described by those using it as a travelling support group,” Ms Mangan said. “It offers not just transport to appointments, but comfort, understanding, and companionship during what can be a very difficult time for patients and their families.”
The organisers concluded by offering a “Míle Buíochas” to everyone who took time out of their Christmas morning to support these two worthy causes.

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Beaufort Golf Club reopening under new management

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Beaufort Golf Club is entering a new chapter as it is set to reopen under new management.

The Magill Family, who own the course, have described the reopening as a “modern but respectful evolution” of the club, building on Beaufort’s strong heritage while investing in facilities, technology and experiences that appeal to younger players and new members.

Pauline, the club’s new Golf Operations Manager, alongside Ella, are now the welcoming faces of Beaufort Golf Club.

Both have been overwhelmed by the positive response from members and the wider local community, with strong support evident since the reopening.

A major redevelopment of the clubhouse kitchen and restaurant is currently underway.

Central to this project is the finalisation of a new, fully branded restaurant franchise, to be run on site by a five-star Michelin trained chef.

Beaufort Golf Club is set to become the first golf club in County Kerry to fully adopt robotic mowing technology for its fairways, representing a major advancement in course maintenance, consistency, and sustainability.

The robotic mowing programme is led by new Head Greenkeeper Padraig Bruton, alongside Tony who remains onsite with an expanded greens team.

Looking ahead, the club has ambitious but carefully phased plans. Shane Spellman, who is overseeing the investment, said “the club is exploring complementary leisure and sporting activities on site, including a padel court, golf simulation and other facilities, all to broaden its appeal and strengthen its role as a community hub”

To mark the reopening, Beaufort Golf Club is offering a reduced sign-up fee for new members until the end of January, while welcoming back former members at existing rates.

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