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Tourism Ireland CEO Outlines Global Strategy at KTIF Tourism Day

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The CEO of Tourism Ireland, Alice Mansergh, was in Killarney on Tuesday of this week to address tourism leaders from across the county at the Kerry Tourism Industry Federation (KTIF) Tourism Day 2026.

The event, held at The Brehon Hotel & Spa, brought together a broad range of representatives from Kerry’s business community, including accommodation providers, visitor attractions, and transport services.

As a membership organisation representing tourism operators throughout the county, KTIF provides a unified voice for the sector.

During her address, Ms Mansergh outlined overseas market performance and emerging travel trends, focusing specifically on how Kerry can capitalise on international opportunities.

The morning featured a diverse line-up of speakers, including Kerry County Council Chief Executive Fearghal Reidy, who spoke on infrastructure and sustainable growth, and Miriam Kennedy, Head of the Wild Atlantic Way at Fáilte Ireland.

Technology and the economy were also central themes, with RDI Hub CEO Fergal Brosnan discussing AI and digital transformation, while global financial expert Mike O’Sullivan provided insights into international economic conditions.

Writer and publican Billy Keane also addressed the gathering, highlighting the cultural role of the Irish pub in the visitor experience.

KTIF Chairperson Pat O’Leary said the diversity of speakers reflects the interconnected nature of the industry: “Tourism in Kerry is not one single sector — it is a network of businesses and communities working together. From international marketing and economic forecasting to innovation and the unique role of our publicans, today’s discussions highlight how every element contributes to the strength of our tourism product. With representation from all regions, chambers and businesses of every scale in the county, KTIF ensures that the voice is unified and influential.”

The discussions focused on sustainability and community resilience, with significant attention given to upcoming international opportunities like the Ryder Cup 2027.

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New Streetscapes murals launched at College Square

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A colourful collaboration between the Kerry Local Creative Youth Partnership (LCYP) and the Architecture Kerry Festival at Kerry County Council launched yesterday evening at College Square.

Titled Streetscapes, the open-air public art installation officially opened at 5pm on Thursday, accompanied by a performance from the Killarney Youth Drumming Band THUMP! under the guidance of Urs Wenk from Drum Dance Ireland.


The public art project features a series of wall murals depicting Killarney through the eyes of local children, exploring freedom, play, and potential future evolutions of the townscape.

The artworks reimagine Killarney’s iconic landmarks and streets, blending youthful imagination and curiosity.


Supported under the Creative Ireland Programme, the installation is mounted on the gable wall of Reen’s Life Pharmacy in College Square, where it will remain on public display until March 2027.


Speaking at the launch, Daniel O’Shea, Youth Development Officer at Kerry ETB, stated: “Streetscapes is a wonderful celebration of how children see things. Their creativity brings new perspectives to the townscape, and we are proud to support their ideas and their art through this public artwork.”


Deirdre Enright, Co-Ordinator of the Local Creative Youth Partnership at Kerry ETB, acknowledged the community support behind the initiative: “We are very grateful to Reen’s Life Pharmacy who have shared their built space with us. Huge credit is due to the artistic team from Me+The Moon whose dedication to creativity and to children’s art shine through in this work.”


The project forms part of the annual Architecture Kerry Festival and receives funding through Creative Ireland and the Department of Education and Youth via Kerry ETB and Kerry County Council.


Victoria McCarthy, Festival Organiser and Architectural Conservation Officer at Kerry County Council, welcomed the continued inter-agency project: “It’s always a great event for Architecture Kerry and we are so pleased with this collaboration between public sector organisations. It remains a key feature of the Architecture Kerry programme.”
See next week’s Killarney Advertiser for full photographic coverage of the event.

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Dr Crokes stalwarts enjoy lake cruise

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Dr Crokes stalwarts enjoy lake cruise

Dr Crokes stalwarts enjoy lake cruise

Dr Crokes GAA Club hosted a special day out for its senior members on Monday, this week, taking a group aged between 70 and 90 on a cruise across the Lakes of Killarney.

Organised by the Dr Crokes Healthy Club committee under its Crokes Cruisers initiative, the event was held to recognise the lifetime contribution made by long-standing members who continue to support club activities behind the scenes.
The group travelled on two vessels, including An Cathal, an open boat operated by local brothers Tony and Mike Fleming. Built to preserve the traditional Killarney lake boat style, it is the only purpose-built, fully accessible boat on the lakes, allowing members with mobility issues and wheelchair users to safely join the two-hour trip.
Following the lake tour, the party gathered on shore for coffee and refreshments provided by Derric McMahon and Harry Clifton of the Ross Castle Garden Cafe.
The initiative forms part of the club’s ongoing community work as a Gold Award winner in the GAA Healthy Club programme.

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