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Dedicated fire helicopter for National Park

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By Sean Moriarty

The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) will have better access to fire-fighting helicopters in the future to help deter any potential fires.

This follows an investigation into the April 2021 fires that destroyed thousands of acres of scrubland and natural habitat in the National Park.

The three-day fire was eventually brought under control by five helicopters, three of which were operated by the Air Corps and two were privately owned.

One of the key findings of the investigation was the delay in getting the helicopters to the scene.

At a recent Kerry County Council meeting Killarney-based politician Patrick Connor Scarteen asked: “What extra measures have been put in place to protect our National Pak in Killarney from fire?”

A Kerry County Fire Service official told the meeting that it had introduced new initiatives including extra ground patrol, static and mobile surveillance equipment.

“Specialist thermal surveillance equipment has been provided to the NPWS rangers and staff along with the retention by NPWS of a ‘first call’ helicopter [with] air fire-fighting capability to fight any fires immediately on detection and the deployment of extensive aerial surveillance in the National Park this year with NPWS staff undertaking surveillance in helicopters and also surveillance by drones, on a regular and ongoing basis over the last months – especially at times of higher fire risk.”

Kerry County Council said its staff sought advice from rangers from the Glacier Mountain National Park in Montana, USA.

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Killarney Pumpkin Farm returns for Halloween

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The annual event is in its sixth year and caters to people of all ages.

The farm is located in Headford; it is open every weekend for the month of October and the week of Halloween.

From pumpkin patches and cornflower mazes to witches and potions, there is something for everyone at the farm.

The eleven77 bus provides cosy comfort food and there are resident Alpacas on the farm.

Roam around the haunted cottage, enjoy storytelling with the Seanchai and explore the pretty pumpkin pixie village.

Pre-booking is essential, and tickets are available on the Killarney Pumpkin Farm’s website. It promises to be a jam-packed day of fun with the entire family.

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Killarney Toastmasters host special open night

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Killarney Toastmasters is inviting members of the local community to an open night at the Dromhall Hotel on Muckross Road this Tuesday evening at 7.30pm.

The event aims to help adults improve public speaking skills, whether preparing for workplace presentations, wedding toasts, or everyday conversations.

Guests can attend without any pressure or obligation to speak on the night.


For over two decades, the local club has provided a structured space for members to build confidence, practice impromptu speaking, and develop leadership attributes through constructive feedback and group exercises.


Club President Nikolina Tijardovic highlighted the broader personal benefits of joining the organization, noting that meetings are grounded in encouragement and mutual respect so members can progress at their own pace.


Admission to the open night is free for all visitors. Further information is available by contacting Anthony Walsh on 085 7314505, emailing president-590632@toastmastersclubs.org, or visiting the Killarney Toastmasters Facebook page.

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