News
BREAKING: N22 Killarney–Farranfore road gets formal National Development Plan commitment
The N22 Killarney–Farranfore section of the Kerry–Cork Economic Corridor is to be formally included in the Department of Transport’s Sectoral Plan, part of the National Development Plan (NDP) Review which is to be published today.
The Government has explicitly committed that this major infrastructure project, estimated to cost well over €200 million, will reach construction within the lifetime of this NDP, by 2030.
Minister Michael Healy-Rae TD and Deputy Danny Healy-Rae TD have welcomed the decision, describing it as a “historic and long-overdue commitment.”
Minister Michael Healy-Rae stated the commitment is the “clearest and strongest” ever made to the project, adding that the Killarney–Farranfore Bypass is finally being treated as a strategic national investment.
Deputy Danny Healy-Rae highlighted the recent allocation of €3 million secured earlier this year, which he stated was vital for advancing topographical surveys, ground investigation works (which began on November 3rd), and the detailed planning and design phase.
Strategic Importance for Kerry
Both Deputies stressed the bypass is vital not only for Killarney but for the entire county, citing its importance in: strengthening the Kerry–Cork Economic Corridor, easing congestion in Killarney town and Farranfore village, improving safety along the N22 route, supporting long-term economic development in the region.
Minister Michael Healy-Rae concluded by thanking the Taoiseach, Tánaiste, and Minister for Transport for supporting the project’s inclusion, stating, “Their commitment ensures that this project is now firmly positioned for delivery.”
BREAKING: N22 Killarney–Farranfore road gets formal National Development Plan commitment
The N22 Killarney–Farranfore section of the Kerry–Cork Economic Corridor is to be formally included in the Department of Transport’s Sectoral Plan, part of the National Development Plan (NDP) Review which is to be published today.
The Government has explicitly committed that this major infrastructure project, estimated to cost well over €200 million, will reach construction within the lifetime of this NDP, by 2030.
Minister Michael Healy-Rae TD and Deputy Danny Healy-Rae TD have welcomed the decision, describing it as a “historic and long-overdue commitment.”
Minister Michael Healy-Rae stated the commitment is the “clearest and strongest” ever made to the project, adding that the Killarney–Farranfore Bypass is finally being treated as a strategic national investment.
Deputy Danny Healy-Rae highlighted the recent allocation of €3 million secured earlier this year, which he stated was vital for advancing topographical surveys, ground investigation works (which began on November 3rd), and the detailed planning and design phase.
Strategic Importance for Kerry
Both Deputies stressed the bypass is vital not only for Killarney but for the entire county, citing its importance in: strengthening the Kerry–Cork Economic Corridor, easing congestion in Killarney town and Farranfore village, improving safety along the N22 route, supporting long-term economic development in the region.
Minister Michael Healy-Rae concluded by thanking the Taoiseach, Tánaiste, and Minister for Transport for supporting the project’s inclusion, stating, “Their commitment ensures that this project is now firmly positioned for delivery.”
Kilcummin man opens New Zealand pub
A Kilcummin native living in New Zealand is appealing to the Kerry community for genuine local memorabilia to decorate his new Irish pub and deli on the other side of the world.
Cian Curtin and his wife are currently fitting out The Snug, a new venture located in New Brighton, a seaside suburb of Christchurch. By day, the venue will operate as a deli serving Irish staples such as breakfast rolls, chicken fillet rolls, home-made soda bread, and fresh milk. In the evenings, it will transform into a traditional neighbourhood pub featuring Irish food, drink, and live music.
Determined to create an authentic atmosphere rather than relying on generic decorations, Cian is calling on Kerry locals, businesses, and sports clubs to send over items with a real story behind them.
“Being from Kilcummin, there’ll naturally be plenty of Kerry influence around the place. One thing that’s particularly important to me is that the pub doesn’t end up filled with generic, newly made ‘Irish pub’ decorations. I’d much rather fill the walls gradually with genuine pieces from home that have a bit of history and a story behind them. If any local pubs, clubs, businesses or readers had an old sign, photograph, jersey, bar piece or other bit of Kerry memorabilia gathering dust that they thought deserved a new home on the other side of the world, I’d absolutely love to hear from them.”
If you can help email: thesnugirishbar@gmail.com
The fifth annual Pedal for Grace community fundraiser will take place in Firies on Saturday, September 5, with organisers aiming to push total funds raised past the €90,000 milestone.
Held in honour of local girl Grace O’Sullivan, who lives with Stargardt disease, the event brings together cyclists, walkers, and supporters from across the local community to raise vital funds for Vision Ireland. Over the past four years, the initiative has raised almost €90,000 for the national sight loss charity.
This year’s event offers options for all fitness levels, including a 60km route, shorter spins, and a walking course, with tandem options also available. Following the physical challenges, the day will feature a community barbecue, family fun activities, a raffle, and an evening of music and entertainment.
Grace was diagnosed with Stargardt disease, a genetic eye condition that affects central vision and causes progressive sight loss. The annual event was established by her family to raise awareness and support Vision Ireland’s work, which provides practical and emotional support, rehabilitation services, and assistive technology to help people living with visual impairments maintain independence.
Members of the public are invited to register in advance or support the event in Firies on the day. Full details and registration information are available on the Vision Ireland website.
Kilcummin man opens New Zealand pub
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