Killarney apprentice John Stack has reached the final six in the national welding competition at WorldSkills Ireland 2026.

A fourth-year metal fabricator apprentice at Liebherr Container Cranes Ltd in Killarney, Stack represented the local firm at the national finals held at the RDS in Dublin. Across three days of intense competition, entrants completed a complex welding project designed to test technical proficiency, precision, and craftsmanship.

WorldSkills Ireland gathers top apprentices across various industries to benchmark vocational training standards and showcase emerging technical talent.

Stack secured his place in the final six after competing against leading fabricators and welders from across the country.

Dominique Maurer, Managing Director of Production at Liebherr Container Cranes Ltd, praised Stack’s performance on the national stage.

“We are proud to see John reach the final stages of the WorldSkills Ireland Welding Competition,” Maurer said. “This achievement is a testament to his hard work, determination, and welding skills. John has been an excellent ambassador for Liebherr throughout the competition, and we are extremely proud of the way he represented the company on the national stage.”

Liebherr Container Cranes has operated in Killarney since 1958, developing local engineering talent through its structured apprenticeship programme.
Further details regarding upcoming apprenticeship opportunities at the Killarney facility are available by contacting lcc.apprenticerecruit@liebherr.com.

Kayne’s Bar & Brasserie launches autumn supper menu

Kayne’s Bar & Brasserie at the Dromhall Hotel on Muckross Road has launched an autumn supper menu running throughout October.

Head Chef Paul O’Connor created the seasonal offer, which is priced at €32 per person for two courses or €40 per person for three courses.
The starter options include chicken wings in barbecue sauce, seafood chowder, goat’s cheese flatbread, beef nachos, and soup of the day.
Main courses feature pan-seared Irish steak, bacon and cheese burgers, market fish, vegetable and tofu yellow curry, and supreme of Irish chicken served with Sneem black pudding.
Dessert choices include apple and berry crumble, passionfruit and mango crème brûlée, and strawberry and white chocolate cheesecake.
The venue is open daily for evening dining and has also opened bookings for festive lunches, dinners, and private Christmas parties. Reservations and party enquiries can be made directly with the hotel.