While the newly opened Listowel Bypass is expected to alleviate traffic congestion in the town centre there, the situation in Killarney continues to worsen.

Despite a significant increase in traffic volumes, the proposed Killarney bypass remains unapproved, leaving residents and businesses frustrated.

Cllr Brendan Cronin,  expressed his deep concern at a recent Killarney Municipal District meeting.

He highlighted the dramatic rise in traffic, noting that "all the roads are choked and every back road is being utilised."

Cronin cited a recent survey indicating that 22,890 vehicles now use the Killarney bypass daily, up from 18,480 just two years ago.

"Mill Road, in particular, is suicide," Cronin said. "People don't want to walk or cycle there anymore."

He emphasised the urgent need for a bypass to relieve the pressure on Killarney's infrastructure and improve the quality of life for residents.

The contrast between the situations in Listowel and Killarney is stark.

While Listowel has successfully implemented a bypass to reduce traffic congestion, Killarney remains grappling with the challenges of growing traffic volumes.

Cronin called on the government to intervene and expedite the approval of the Killarney bypass, stating that "Killarney is choking. We have no escape route unless Minister Ryan intervenes."

The Listowel Bypass, which was officially opened on August 19, will divert 7,000 vehicles per day away from the town centre.

This project, costing €62 million, includes 3.6 kilometres of new road, 2.3 kilometres of improved existing roads, and new roundabouts and junction improvements.