A new bus service linking Mallow and Killarney is in the final stages of planning, according to Cork North West Fine Gael TD John Paul O’Shea.

Commencement is dependent on the availability of resources and funding.

Once operational, the route is expected to offer up to six return journeys daily, seven days a week.

The new service, which will be known as Route 515, will connect Mallow and Killarney and service villages such as Ballyclough, Castlemagner, Kanturk, Boherbue, Knocknagree, Rathmore, Gneeveguilla and Kilcummin en route.

Deputy O’Shea has welcomed the news describing it as “excellent” for the local communities.

He said: “Reliable public transport is vital for connecting people across rural North Cork and Kerry supporting access to work, education, healthcare, and local amenities.”

Fine Gael councillor Tony O’Shea also praised the initiative, calling it a “game changer” for local residents by “greatly enhancing connectivity in Mallow”.

Killarney accordionist Liam O’Connor has been named Multi-Instrumentalist of the Year 2025 at the Irish Entertainment Awards, held at the Great Northern Hotel in Bundoran, County Donegal.

O’Connor, who holds a Guinness World Record for the fastest fingers on the accordion, received the award from actor Patrick Bergin during a ceremony that celebrated leading figures in Irish music and entertainment.

Liam was joined by his talented family band; daughter Saoirse and sons Oisín and Cillian who also performed on the night. The O’Connor family were recognised for their outstanding contribution to Irish traditional and contemporary music.

The Irish Entertainment Awards, organised by Keltic Radio TV, brought together some of the biggest names in the industry, including Philomena Begley, Mary Duff, The Nolan Sisters, and the Dublin City Ramblers.

Speaking after the event, O’Connor said he was “honoured and humbled” to receive the award and thanked the organisers, his family, and his supporters. “It was a fantastic night of Irish music and talent and I’m so proud to represent Killarney on a stage like this,” he said.