While several participants remain committed to the Killarney Coffee Cup Project, many businesses in the town have withdrawn from the initiative posing significant challenges for the project.

Once non-participating outlets enter the market, many customers revert to convenience and single-use cups.

As a result of this, small businesses also revert to single-use cups to compete with competition.

Organisers of the project say that without universal rules, convenience wins, and single-use cups will end up in general waste which undermines the national waste reduction goals.

Johnny Maguire, co-president of Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce, said it is disappointing that the government are unwilling to move forward with the latte levy legislation.

He said: “The project showed that businesses and consumers were willing to adapt their behaviours with the right incentives. We proved that the latte levy, which had been promised by government, would work.”

Despite the withdrawals, the project continues with the support of Kerry County Council, Killarney Chamber of Tourism & Commerce, the NPWS, Failte Ireland, local hoteliers, local businesses and the wider Killarney community.

Since its launch, there has been positive outcomes.

There has been a reduction in litter and single-use waste, which saves an estimated 18 tonnes of waste annually.

There has been interest from 35 towns across Ireland who are eager to replicate the model in their own communities.

The Killarney Coffee Cup Project remains committed to reducing waste and inspiring change locally however they warn that lasting impact requires leadership and policy support.

A local community-based organisation in Rathmore is celebrating a huge milestone later this month as it celebrates 50 years of service to the people of East Kerry.

The Social Action Group Rathmore (SAG) was founded in 1975 and is now a cornerstone of the local community.

Its primary mission is centred on the care and welfare of older people.

The community group will celebrate its 50th anniversary at Killarney Racecourse on October 25, followed by a commemorative mass in St. Joseph’s Church, Rathmore on October 26 at 11.30am.

The celebrations will continue throughout the year with the launch of a book which will document the foundation and achievements of the group.

It began as a student led initiative in a history class at St Mary’s Secondary School under the guidance of former principal Jerh O’Donoghue.

Over the decades, the SAG has developed 35 homes for older adults, established St Josephs Day Care Centre and created facilities for young people in Rathmore.

Noreen Fleming is the CEO of the SAG, and she said the group delivers a range of essential services.

She explained: “These services include meals-on-wheels, laundry services, and transport to St Joseph’s Day Care Centre, where older people enjoy meals, nursing care, social activities, and companionship five days a week. Some people live in isolated areas, and this service ensures they remain part of a thriving community in Rathmore.”

Donal O’Keeffe, chairperson, said that the celebrations will be an opportunity to honour the dedication of so many people over the last 50 years.

Tickets for the 50th Anniversary Celebration Night at Killarney Racecourse on October 25 are priced at €15 and are available from Teach Iosagáin or St Joseph’s Day Care Centre. For enquiries, please call 064 77 61000.