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Bus operators left in the dark ahead of schools reopening

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By Sean Moriarty

School bus operators who service Killarney schools are still waiting on official guidance despite returning to work on Monday morning.

School bus runs are operated by Bus Eireann on behalf of the Department of Education but that national bus service sub-contracts regional runs to local operators.

One local bus firm, who wished to remain anonymous, told the Killarney Advertiser: “We are ready and willing to get back to work but we have no official guidance despite asking for it several times.”

The operator said his firm and drivers have taken all the particle steps necessary to ensure a safe return to work for staff and students.

These include a deep clean regime after each working shift and the provision of hand sanitisers on every bus.

However, in terms of paperwork and actual operating procedures, he said he has been left in the dark by the Department of Education.

He raised concerns about the management of contract tracing paperwork, the added responsibility on his drivers who have to ensure students comply with social distancing while on board.

One Department of Education guideline states that schools busses (for secondary students) can only operate at 50 per cent capacity. With just two days (from today, Friday) left before schools re-open he still does not know if needs to add extra busses to each of his contracted runs and if he needs to employ extra drivers.

“Taking on drivers is not so easy as they have to Garda vetted before working on school busses and that takes time,” he added.

Meanwhile, Primary School busses are allowed operate to full capacity adding to the confusion.

Some rural services could carry and mix of primary and secondary school children from rural areas to town schools.

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Overnight water restrictions in Greater Killarney

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Overnight water restrictions in Greater Killarney

Uisce Éireann has introduced overnight water restrictions across parts of Greater Killarney to help reservoir levels recover during the current spell of warm weather.

The restrictions will take effect tonight from 9pm until 7am tomorrow morning. Areas affected include Aghadoe, Beaufort, and Listry on the Mid-Kerry Water Supply Scheme.

Increased demand during the warm weather has meant treated water is being used faster than it can be produced. Uisce Éireann stated that the nighttime shut-offs are necessary to protect the daytime supply for homes, businesses, and essential services.

Operations manager Eoin O’Connell urged local residents and businesses to conserve water where possible:

“Nighttime restrictions are being implemented to support treated reservoir recovery and maintain daytime supply. Conserving water will help protect resources and maintain supply for all. When there is an increase in temperatures it leads to a rise in demand for water. Water is a hugely precious resource, and it is important to conserve water.”

Uisce Éireann is monitoring water levels daily and will conduct a further operational assessment later this week.

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West End and Great Southern team up for theatre experience

A powerful production of one of Ireland’s most celebrated contemporary plays is coming to the Killarney stage this month. In an exciting joint venture, the West End House School of […]

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A powerful production of one of Ireland’s most celebrated contemporary plays is coming to the Killarney stage this month.
In an exciting joint venture, the West End House School of Arts has partnered with the Great Southern Killarney to offer audiences an unrivaled theatre experience.

The West End Players Ensemble will present By the Bog of Cats, Marina Carr’s haunting and critically acclaimed masterpiece, on Wednesday, July 29 and Thursday, July 30 at 8:00pm at the town centre hotel.

Charlie Hughes, the show’s director and Head Tutor at West End House School of Arts, expressed great pride in the milestone, stating he is “so proud that our five years in operation here in Killarney have been able to support and develop such talented local actors to stage this production”.
Set against the stark beauty of the Irish midlands, the compelling drama tells the unforgettable story of Hester Swane, a fiercely independent woman determined to hold on to her home, her daughter, and her place in the world. Rich in Irish folklore, dark humour, and unforgettable characters, Carr’s masterpiece explores themes of love, betrayal, identity, and the enduring pull of the past, offering an unflinching portrait of Irish society.
Maria O’Meara, Director of Rooms at Great Southern Killarney, welcomed the production, saying, “Welcoming such a gripping and powerful production into the hotel is a wonderful way to celebrate creativity and culture. Creating memorable experiences has always been at the heart of the Great Southern Killarney, and we are proud to host an evening that brings people together through the arts.”
Theatregoers can enjoy an exclusive pre-theatre dining experience. A special menu will be available at the five-star Great Southern Hotel’s Arbor Restaurant for €55 per person. Dining reservations can be secured in advance by calling 086 663 8000 or by emailing events@greatsouthernkillarney.com.
The play runs for two hours, including a brief intermission, and is suitable for audiences aged 16 and over. Show tickets must be booked in advance online via Eventbrite at https://bythebogofcats.eventbrite.com

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