The ongoing discussion regarding the cutting of dandelions in Killarney has reached a wider audience, with readers now highlighting how other European cities manage their green spaces.

The debate began in mid-April when local residents, led by Niall Keogh, criticised the Killarney Municipal District for mowing roadside margins that were filled with wildflowers.
These plants serve as a vital early-season food source for bees and other pollinators. Since then, the Killarney Advertiser has received a steady stream of correspondence from locals calling for a change in policy to align with the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan.
The conversation has now taken an international turn. Reader Kathleen Dennehy contacted the Advertiser this week with photos from a recent trip to Austria. Her images show sidewalks in both Salzburg and Vienna where green areas are left to grow, teeming with dandelions in the middle of the city.
“You may be interested in these photos as a contribution to the discussion on green areas in Killarney,” Kathleen said, pointing out that even major tourist cities in Europe are embracing a more nature-focused approach to urban maintenance.
The international examples provide a sharp contrast to the “decapitated” margins recently seen in Killarney. Local campaigners argue that if cities like Salzburg can maintain a high standard of tourism while protecting biodiversity, Killarney should be able to do the same.
The public outcry has led to increased calls for a “No Mow May” policy. Residents such as Annette Dalton and Noreen O’Brien have argued that the council’s current mowing schedule is out of step with environmental needs, prioritising a “neat” appearance over the survival of native species.

A brilliant big band sound will fill Killarney on Sunday, May 17 at 4.00pm as the Gleneagle Concert Band presents its eagerly awaited annual charity concert at Gleneagle.

This year’s concert will raise funds for Recovery Haven Kerry Cancer Support House, Kerry Stars Special Olympics Club, Fossa/Killorglin Scout Groups, and the Gleneagle Concert Band Music Education Programme instrument loan scheme.

Special guest performers on the night will be the choir of St. Brigid’s Presentation Secondary School.

The programme promises to cater for all musical tastes, featuring military marches, classical selections, jazz numbers, film scores, choral works and popular vocal hits, ensuring an evening of high-quality entertainment for all ages.

Gleneagle Concert Band Music Development Officer Vincent Condon said: “We are delighted to be collaborating with local charities and hope the public will come out in great numbers again this year to support this worthwhile fundraising venture. Recovery Haven Kerry Cancer Support House delivers caring and therapeutic services to those who have experienced cancer, their families and carers, and we are honoured to support their work.”

The Kerry Stars Special Olympics Club provides athletes with special needs the opportunity to be productive and respected members of society through participation in an all-year-round sports and competition programme.

“They do amazing work and deserve every support,” he added. 

Like the Gleneagle Concert Band, the Fossa/Killorglin Scout Groups have provided a fantastic outlet for young people over the years to develop life skills, forge friendships and contribute to their community. A large audience on the night will help raise much-needed funds to support these wonderful organisations.”

The Gleneagle Concert Band has performed with distinction for former President Mary McAleese and President Michael D. Higgins during their visits to Kerry. over the past 45 years the band has also represented Kerry and Ireland abroad on tours to Germany, Holland, Sweden, Austria, Portugal, Paris, Lisbon, Monaco and Cannes. Most recently, the band embarked on a successful joint concert tour to Seville and Gibraltar in 2025 with the Midleton Concert Band.

Band Manager Ciaran Lynch said: “This annual concert is always one of the highlights of our year. It not only showcases the dedication and talent of our musicians and choir, but also reflects the strong community spirit that exists throughout Kerry. We are extremely grateful for the continued support of the public, local businesses and community leaders, and we look forward to welcoming a large audience for what promises to be a fantastic evening of music and fundraising.”

Tickets are priced at €18. They are available at the door on the night, from Gleneagle Concert Band members, by calling 087 2229513, from the St. Brigid’s Presentation Secondary School office, via Kerry Stars Special Olympics Club (087 236 5664 or kerrystars63@gmail.com), Recovery Haven Kerry (066 7192122), and from Fossa/Killorglin Scout Group members or phone 0831394992

Anyone interested in joining the Gleneagle Concert Band, including past members and adults, or enrolling in lessons with the Gleneagle School of Music, is encouraged to contact the band on 087 2229513.