News
Healy-Rae questions long-term viability of Anseo bus project
Deputy Michael Healy-Rae has said that while the TFI Anseo pilot project in Killarney has undoubtedly provided a valuable public transport service for many people, serious questions now need to be asked about its long-term financial sustainability.
The comments come following a reply received from the National Transport Authority (NTA), which confirmed that fare revenue generated by the service between August 2025 and March 2026 amounted to €62,565, while the operating cost over the same period was €495,000.
Deputy Healy-Rae said:
“There is no doubt that many people have benefited from the TFI Anseo service. It has provided a flexible transport option, particularly for those without access to a car, older people, students and workers who need to get around Killarney. I have heard positive feedback from a lot of users and that should be acknowledged.”
“However, we also have to be honest and ask questions about the figures that have now been provided by the NTA. The service generated just over €62,500 in fare income during the period in question, while costing almost half a million euro to operate. That means the taxpayer is carrying the overwhelming majority of the cost.”
Deputy Healy-Rae said that while public transport services will always require some level of subsidy, there must be a clear understanding of whether the current model can be sustained in the longer term.
“Nobody expects rural or local transport services to make a profit, nor should they. Public transport is a public service. However, there is a difference between subsidising a service and having a situation where the cost and income are so far apart. It is only fair that questions are asked as to whether the model is sustainable and whether value for money is being achieved.”
Community clean-up group reactivates in National Park
A community litter clean-up initiative established during the pandemic has reactivated following a fresh volunteer drive in Killarney National Park.
The group was originally formed in April 2021 by local residents Eoin O’Sullivan and Alan Ryan to tackle rubbish accumulation in the park. The initiative built up a strong local following, with its dedicated Facebook group growing to over 630 members.
Highlighting the park’s importance to the local economy and community, tour guide Diarmaid Griffin organised the latest clean-up session. According to figures from Kerry County Council, 30 per cent of workers in Killarney are employed in tourism-related industries.
Six volunteers took part in the recent Sunday outing, with organisers expressing hope that attendance will grow for future scheduled events.
Diarmaid Griffin said: “It feels good to give back to the place that gives us so much.”
Organisers extended thanks to National Parks and Wildlife Service staff for permissions, Killarney Town Hall for providing clean-up equipment, and Killarney Tidy Towns for ongoing operational support.
Killarney rider represents Ireland at UCI Enduro World Cup
Local rider Adam Murphy recently swapped his club colours for the green jersey of Ireland to compete at the UCI Enduro World Cup in Italy.
Taking on some of the world’s fastest enduro racers, Murphy navigated a series of technical mountain trails across both events. The Killarney Cycling Club member posted strong stage times throughout the competition, demonstrating his consistency and speed against elite international field entries.
The event offered valuable top-tier experience as Murphy represented both country and town on the international stage.
Killarney Cycling Club expressed its gratitude to all local sponsors whose ongoing support enables club athletes to compete in high-level events abroad.
The club runs mountain bike rides for youth cyclists every Sunday morning in Muckross. Anyone interested in participating can find further details and contact the club directly through the official Killarney Cycling Club website.
GREEN JERSEY: Local cyclist Adam Murphy in action during the UCI Enduro World Cup in Italy, where he represented Ireland against the world’s top mountain bike riders.
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