Funding of €17,000 has been allocated to tackle Rhododendron overgrowth in Killarney National Park.

It is one of nine biodiversity project in Kerry that are set to receive funding announced this week by Malcolm Noonan TD, Minister of State for Heritage and Electoral Reform.

A combined total of €2.7m has been allocated nationally with €96,263 going to the projects in Kerry.

They are €34,000 for Japanese Knotweed treatment in Dingle and West Kerry; €17,000 for a Rhododendron ponticum Strategy; €11,475 for the Kerry Biosphere Educational Programme 2023; €8,500 for Dune Restoration in Natura 2000 in Kerry; €8,500 to Celebrate 30 Years of Knowledge of the Shannon Dolphins and €8,500 to Improve Soil Biodiversity by the use of natural bio-fertilisers.

“Given that it’s Biodiversity Week, I’m especially delighted to announce funding of over €2.5 million for 188 biodiversity projects,” said Minister of State for Heritage and Electoral Reform, Malcolm Noonan TD.

“The Local Biodiversity Action Fund is an enormously impactful scheme that supports local authorities and communities to deliver on Ireland’s national objectives for nature, from invasive species to habitat restoration to awareness-raising to surveys and monitoring work. As more and more Biodiversity Officers join the ranks of our local authorities, I know that the benefits for nature and people that this Fund provides are only going to grow.”