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Hotels operating at just 32 percent capacity

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Hotels are calling on the Government to retain existing business and employment supports for the industry which has lost billions of Euro.

Hotel and guesthouses across the country have experienced an estimated €5.3 billion collapse in revenues across 2020 and 2021, according to figures from the IHF.

Chair of the Irish Hotel Federation’s Kerry (IHF) branch Bernadette Randles says the supports are vital for the recovery of the sector and the wider tourism industry.

Occupancy figures nationally are expected to reach just 32% for the year, compared to 73% for 2019.

“As Ireland’s largest indigenous employer, tourism supported almost 270,000 livelihoods including 15,700 in Kerry prior to the pandemic. Our industry has been hardest hit by the restrictions, and the ensuing economic and financial impact of COVID-19 has been devastating. The Government supports so far have been critical, and a lifeline for many businesses, helping to restore employment and support the viability of businesses until we get back to a more stable footing. However, we need a firm commitment that they will be retained until the impact of the pandemic has passed. Tourism will recover, but it will take time,” she said.

The IHF is also calling for the 9% tourism VAT rate to be retained until after 2025, to provide certainty and allow Irish tourism to compete internationally.

“Our industry has a proven track record as a major contributor to the economy. Tourism’s recovery is just beginning. The pro-tourism Government measures introduced have been vital and with their continued support we can fully recover the ground we lost during the pandemic,” she added.

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Kilcummin GAA announces return of annual Pink Night

The Ladies’ Committee of Kilcummin GAA Club has announced the return of its annual Pink Night, set to take place in The Klub Bar on Saturday, January 3. Now in […]

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The Ladies’ Committee of Kilcummin GAA Club has announced the return of its annual Pink Night, set to take place in The Klub Bar on Saturday, January 3.

Now in its 12th year, the event will support Comfort for Chemo for the fifth year running. The evening promises both fun and fundraising for the charity.

Guests will be greeted with a Prosecco reception and chocolate-dipped strawberries to start the post-Christmas celebration.
While attendees are encouraged to wear pink, dressing up is optional, with the focus on community and support for the cause. Prizes will be awarded for Best Dressed Female and Best Dressed Male.

The event begins at 8:00pm. Entertainment will be provided by Derry and Rosie Healy followed by Barry McGrath playing late into the night.

A raffle and door prizes, kindly provided by local sponsors, will take place on the night. Committee member Kathleen Ryan said the continued support of the local sponsors is deeply appreciated.

Admission to the event is free, and all are welcome to attend the celebration.

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A winter ascent of the MacGillycuddy Reeks is always special

Killarney resident and experienced mountaineer Melissa Trant recently shared incredible photographs and her account of climbing the snow-capped MacGillycuddy Reeks, highlighting the unique experience of the mountain range during winter. […]

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Killarney resident and experienced mountaineer Melissa Trant recently shared incredible photographs and her account of climbing the snow-capped MacGillycuddy Reeks, highlighting the unique experience of the mountain range during winter.

The MacGillycuddy Reeks at Christmas time offer a cure for whatever the heart needs, whether it is peace, relaxation, or reflection. Melissa described spending time there as magical at any point of the year, but particularly during the winter months when the mountains are covered in snow.
Climbing one of the winter routes on Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s highest mountain, requires essential safety gear, including crampons, an ice axe, and a helmet, making the experience “incredibly exciting and fun.”
Melissa said that she enjoys visiting the stunning peaks of the MacGillycuddy Reeks often because it is a place she can never get enough of. She finds that mountains make her feel alive, giving her joy, thrill, satisfaction, and peace. She added that the feeling of tranquility and calm on the mountains encompasses every ounce of her.
With Ireland’s finest and highest mountain range on our doorstep in Killarney, Melissa said she feels blessed to be able to head up whenever the mountains are calling

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