News
Invasive water lily threatens Lough Leane
Environmental group Lochanna Beo has raised concerns over large carpets of the invasive Fringed Water Lily proliferating along the shoreline of Ross Bay and Bog Island on Lough Leane.
The plant, known scientifically as Nymphoides peltata, is an invasive aquatic species listed under European Communities regulations.
It thrives in nutrient-rich, eutrophic waters caused by high levels of nitrogen and phosphorus from fertilizers and wastewater discharge.
Identified by its five vibrant yellow fringed petals, the perennial plant roots at the lake bed with long stems reaching the surface.
Late in the season, seeds form floating chains that spread across the water, while boat traffic can also unintentionally disperse seeds to new areas.
The dense mats are currently impacting local boatmen by entangling engine propellers.
The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has urged watercraft operators to avoid driving through the weed mats and reminds lake users to follow the "Check, Clean, Dry" protocol for all vessels.
Lochanna Beo spokesperson Valerie Harrington warned that the plant threatens to disrupt the lake's ecosystem and food web, pointing to wider water quality issues.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has highlighted that Lough Leane is failing to meet Water Framework Directive targets, citing excess nutrients from the Killarney wastewater treatment plant as a key factor. Despite the facility being placed on the EPA Priority Areas List, recent parliamentary responses indicate no upgrade work is scheduled before 2030.
Autism Friendly Killarney launches seasonal event series
Autism Friendly Killarney has announced a new series of free social events and activities taking place across the town from September through December.
The initiative sees the community committee team up with local Champion Organisations to offer inclusive, adapted sessions for children, teenagers, and adults.
Funding from Kerry County Council through the Community Support Fund supports the upcoming autumn and winter programme.
The series begins on Saturday, September 19, with an outdoor rock climbing day in the Gap of Dunloe organised alongside Roam Wild. The session offers dedicated teen and adult climbing slots designed to build confidence in a supportive setting.
In October, West End House will host a three-week series of inclusive classes on October 7, 14, and 21. Separate hourly sessions will run for teenagers aged 13 to 17, children aged 9 to 12, and adults aged 18 and over, with capacity capped at 10 participants per group.
The programme continues in November with creative art sessions at The Art House, before joining the wider Christmas in Killarney celebrations in December.
During the festive season, Autism Friendly Killarney will provide sensory and quiet spaces at the annual Christmas parades to assist attendees who find large crowds and noise challenging.
Organisers confirmed that further community partnerships are currently being planned for early next year.
Booking details for all events are managed directly through the individual partner venues, with places allocated on a first-come basis. Further information on upcoming sessions is available via the Autism Friendly Killarney website and social media channels.
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