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Council confirm algae risk in National Park

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By Sean Moriarty

Dog owners are this week being advised by Kerry County Council to keep pets on a lead while walking them in the National Park as laboratory tests have confirmed the presence of a blue-green algae, which has the potential to form an algal scum.

This week Council staff carried out laboratory tests and in accordance with protocols for these situations, precautionary signage has been erected at locations along the shore of Lough Leane, and those who frequent the shoreline are being advised to exercise caution, as it can be harmful to small animals.

As a precaution, members of the public should ensure that dogs are kept on leads and not allowed to enter the water.

The announcement comes just a week after the Killarney Advertiser reported that at least one local dog had died after coming in contact with water in the National Park.

Local vet Danny O’Sullivan treated at least one local dog for suspected algae poisoning in the last week.

“Daily inspections of the shoreline will take place and further samples will be taken as required,” a Council spokesperson said.

Blue-green ‘algae’ is not actually an algae but is made from Cyanobacteria which feed on nutrients in water.

Cyanobacteria is harmful in other respects too as it can use up the oxygen in water and block sunlight that freshwater plants and animals need to survive . However, it is also a valuable food source for soil-based plants.

A previous outbreak three years ago led to the death of a number of dogs.

Outbreaks of blue-green algae occur now on an annual basis in Killarney, regardless of weather conditions, although muggy humid conditions seem to accelerate the occurrence.

This has been an ongoing issue in the National Park for the last 20 years or more with some sources blaming phosphates from fertilizers used by farmers finding its way into the eco system, while others say it is caused by detergents seeping in to the lakes.

 

 

 

 

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Deenagh Lodge to host Alzheimer’s Memory Walk

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Killarney National Park will serve as the venue for this year’s Kerry Alzheimer’s Memory Walk on Sunday, September 20.

Participants will gather at the Deenagh Lodge ahead of an 11.00am start to complete a 5km scenic route through the park.

The event takes place on the eve of World Alzheimer’s Day as part of a nationwide series of walks supported by Aviva.


Now in its seventh year, the initiative raises vital funds for The Alzheimer Society of Ireland to support local dementia services, including daycare centres, family carer training, social clubs, dementia cafés, and the national helpline.

Last year, nearly 3,000 walkers across Ireland raised over €240,000 for the cause.


The Kerry walk will be led by local champions Kathriona Sheehan, Niamh Murphy, Lynda Phillips, and Melissa Molyneaux, who are walking in support of all those living with dementia.
“We are proud to lead our annual Alzheimer’s Memory Walk supported by Aviva to help fund local dementia services in Kerry,” they said. “The event is about community and helping spread awareness by walking together to raise vital funds for care, support, and hope for the days ahead. Join us in Killarney on Sunday, 20th September to show your support.”


With over 40 walks scheduled across Ireland, members of the public can walk in memory of a loved one or to show solidarity. Further details and registration are available at memorywalk.ie.

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Gary Moynihan wins racecourse style title

Style reigned supreme at Killarney Racecourse as local resident Gary Moynihan and Offaly’s Sylwia Novak captured the top honours at the Canella Lane Best Dressed Day. Moynihan, a local neuromuscular […]

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Style reigned supreme at Killarney Racecourse as local resident Gary Moynihan and Offaly’s Sylwia Novak captured the top honours at the Canella Lane Best Dressed Day.

Moynihan, a local neuromuscular therapist, claimed Best Dressed Gentleman in a made-to-measure six-button burgundy double-breasted suit with a navy check from Saville Menswear in Cork. He completed the winning look with a shirt and paisley tie from Simply Suits Killarney and brown derby shoes from Pavers at the Killarney Outlet Centre.
Best Dressed Lady was awarded to Novak, a hospital personal assistant from Tullamore, who wore a red polka-dot ensemble and custom hat designed by milliner Rita Daly, featuring sustainable jewellery made from recycled plastic.
Canella Lane owner Ciana Aspell praised the high standard of fashion on the day, while Killarney Racecourse Manager Karl McCay thanked the sponsors and racegoers for their support.
With the summer season now wrapped up, the team at Killarney Racecourse is gearing up for the October Festival on October 4 and 5, featuring its first-ever Student Raceday with SPIN South West on the Monday. Early ticket booking is advised.

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