Kerry Airport has received €1.4 million in funding to support payroll costs across air traffic control, fire services and security screening.

In total, €4 million in Exchequer funding is being allocated to Ireland West, Donegal and Kerry airports under the Regional Airports Programme 2021-2025.

The announcement has been welcomed by Kerry TDs Michael Cahill, Danny Healy-Rae, Michael Healy-Rae and Norma Foley.

The announced funding is in addition to the €7.8 million in capital supports announced for the same airports earlier this year.

Overall, passenger traffic across these airports from January to end September this year has increased by 11% when compared with the same period last year.

The Chief Financial Officer at Kerry Airport, Basil Sheerin, extended his appreciation to the Minister for Transport and Kerry politicians for their steadfast support.

He said: “The funding provided for both operational and capital expenditure has been critical to delivering investment in our electric vehicle fleet, green energy initiatives, security infrastructure, and ongoing runway maintenance. hese are commitments to a sustainable and secure future.”

Minister Darragh O’Brien said while today’s announcement marks the last round of funding under the current programme, the Government is committed to investing in regional airports and will create a new programme for 2026-2030.

Meanwhile, more than 7 million Ryanair passengers have travelled through Kerry Airport since the airline began operating there in 1989.

Ryanair’s Director of Communications, Jade Kirwan, welcomed the significant milestone saying it “showcases Ryanair’s continued support and investment in the region.”

Ms Kirwan called on the government to continue supporting regional airports by expanding the scope of the Regional Airports Programme 2026-30 to at least 3m passengers per annum which she says would allow regional airports to grow traffic without being penalised for doing so.

This winter, Ryanair is operating 58 weekly flights across 5 routes to/from Kerry Airport, including city break destinations like Frankfurt, Manchester, and London.

Kerry Airport recently underwent a massive refurbishment, with a new arrivals hall unveiled earlier this month.

It was officially opened by An Taoiseach Micheál Martin.

The Brehon Hotel & Spa held their annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony in aid of St Francis Special School in Beaufort, a tradition that is now in its 20th year.

Upon arrival, guests enjoyed complimentary mulled wine, hot chocolate and minced pies. St Brigid’s Presentation School Choir opened the evening with a performance of some Christmas carols, followed by festive music from the Gleneagle Concert Band. Santa made an appearance, immersing himself in the festivities by joining in the carol singing and then leading the crowds in an exciting countdown to light the new tree. The tree, designed by Norma O’Donoghue, stands tall at 20 feet, creating a striking welcome for everyone arriving at the hotel. Santa delighted young visitors by taking photos and handing out a selection box to each child. The annual tradition continues to be a cherished event for the local community and Brehon staff, combining hospitality with the joy of Christmas while supporting a worthy local cause.