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Relief as hotel bookings are on the rise

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Kerry hotel and guesthouse owners across the country are welcoming the increase in bookings following the Government’s recent announcement that hotels will reopen on June 2.

The latest industry survey from the Irish Hotels Federation (IHF) shows booking levels nationally now average 31% for July and 27% for August – the key summer months.

This compares to levels of 23% and 21% respectively just ahead of the announcement.

As hotels and guesthouses across the country prepare to reopen, Bernadette Randles, Chair of the Kerry branch of the IHF, is calling on the Government to facilitate the return of vaccinated overseas travellers quickly to give a clear sign to overseas markets too that Ireland is open for business again.

“The increase in bookings in the past fortnight has been a welcome morale boost to our members and the thousands of people employed in Irish hotels," she said.

"The domestic market was a real positive last year and we know home holidays will be very important in supporting our sector again this year."

Ms Randles is calling on the Government to implement the EU COVID-19 Travel Certificate, expected to be approved by the EU next month, as quickly as possible. She is also calling for a firm commitment from Government on business and employment supports for the sector into 2022.

“Specifically, we are seeking for the EWSS to remain in place until the end of March 2022, an extension of the Local Authority Rates waiver until the end of March 2022 similar to what has been put in place in Scotland. We also ask that the COVID Restrictions Supports Scheme (CRSS), targeting businesses with a 75% drop in revenue, be doubled irrespective of the level of COVID restrictions and the €5,000 weekly cap to be removed, along with the doubling of reopening grants to reflect the scale of reopening costs after months of prolonged closure."

Ms Randles said hotels also require a clear commitment from Government to retain the tourism VAT rate. “The 9% VAT is a critical measure for international competitiveness and must be in place until 2025 to assist recovery and secure a viable and sustainable future for the industry,” she added.

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Overnight water restrictions in Greater Killarney

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Overnight water restrictions in Greater Killarney

Uisce Éireann has introduced overnight water restrictions across parts of Greater Killarney to help reservoir levels recover during the current spell of warm weather.

The restrictions will take effect tonight from 9pm until 7am tomorrow morning. Areas affected include Aghadoe, Beaufort, and Listry on the Mid-Kerry Water Supply Scheme.

Increased demand during the warm weather has meant treated water is being used faster than it can be produced. Uisce Éireann stated that the nighttime shut-offs are necessary to protect the daytime supply for homes, businesses, and essential services.

Operations manager Eoin O’Connell urged local residents and businesses to conserve water where possible:

“Nighttime restrictions are being implemented to support treated reservoir recovery and maintain daytime supply. Conserving water will help protect resources and maintain supply for all. When there is an increase in temperatures it leads to a rise in demand for water. Water is a hugely precious resource, and it is important to conserve water.”

Uisce Éireann is monitoring water levels daily and will conduct a further operational assessment later this week.

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West End and Great Southern team up for theatre experience

A powerful production of one of Ireland’s most celebrated contemporary plays is coming to the Killarney stage this month. In an exciting joint venture, the West End House School of […]

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A powerful production of one of Ireland’s most celebrated contemporary plays is coming to the Killarney stage this month.
In an exciting joint venture, the West End House School of Arts has partnered with the Great Southern Killarney to offer audiences an unrivaled theatre experience.

The West End Players Ensemble will present By the Bog of Cats, Marina Carr’s haunting and critically acclaimed masterpiece, on Wednesday, July 29 and Thursday, July 30 at 8:00pm at the town centre hotel.

Charlie Hughes, the show’s director and Head Tutor at West End House School of Arts, expressed great pride in the milestone, stating he is “so proud that our five years in operation here in Killarney have been able to support and develop such talented local actors to stage this production”.
Set against the stark beauty of the Irish midlands, the compelling drama tells the unforgettable story of Hester Swane, a fiercely independent woman determined to hold on to her home, her daughter, and her place in the world. Rich in Irish folklore, dark humour, and unforgettable characters, Carr’s masterpiece explores themes of love, betrayal, identity, and the enduring pull of the past, offering an unflinching portrait of Irish society.
Maria O’Meara, Director of Rooms at Great Southern Killarney, welcomed the production, saying, “Welcoming such a gripping and powerful production into the hotel is a wonderful way to celebrate creativity and culture. Creating memorable experiences has always been at the heart of the Great Southern Killarney, and we are proud to host an evening that brings people together through the arts.”
Theatregoers can enjoy an exclusive pre-theatre dining experience. A special menu will be available at the five-star Great Southern Hotel’s Arbor Restaurant for €55 per person. Dining reservations can be secured in advance by calling 086 663 8000 or by emailing events@greatsouthernkillarney.com.
The play runs for two hours, including a brief intermission, and is suitable for audiences aged 16 and over. Show tickets must be booked in advance online via Eventbrite at https://bythebogofcats.eventbrite.com

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