A South Kerry councillor is calling on Kerry County Council to examine the potential for a new Blueway that would link Lough Lein in Killarney with Ballykissane Pier outside Killorglin.

Cllr Tommy Cahill has tabled a motion for this Friday’s meeting of the Kenmare Municipal District, asking council officials to explore the feasibility of developing a Blueway project starting from the shores of Lough Lein, following the River Laune through Killorglin town, and finishing at Ballykissane.
Blueways are designated trails on or alongside Ireland’s rivers, lakes, and canals, designed for water-based activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing, as well as land-based activities like walking and cycling.
They are developed by local authorities in partnership with bodies such as Fáilte Ireland and Waterways Ireland, and require a full planning and consultation process to ensure access, safety, and environmental protection.
Some of Ireland’s most popular Blueways include the Shannon Blueway, which offers paddling routes along Ireland’s largest river, and the Boyne Blueway in Meath, which passes near Trim Castle.
Cllr Cahill believes the River Laune route would be ideal for a similar project and has asked the council to begin looking into its viability.