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“Keep speed vans away from our graveyards”

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Speed detection vans are still setting up outside graveyards in Kerry when funerals are taking place - despite a request by councillors that the practice should cease.
Fianna Fail Councillor John Francis Flynn, who raised the issue at a meeting of the South & West Municipal District on Friday, said Gardai and the Council are blaming each other about it - but meanwhile, it is still happening.
Councillor Flynn had previously raised the matter of GoSafe vans outside graveyards when funerals were taking place at a meeting of Kerry County Council.
"The Council is blaming the Gardai and the Gardai are blaming the Council - but the speed vans are still outside the graveyard," Cllr Flynn said.
He said he was aware of this happening at Kilnanare Graveyard, on the R561 between Firies and Castlemaine, and at Ballyheigue in North Kerry.
The Council had written to An Garda Siochana, at the request of Councillors, informing them about the issue and requesting that the GoSafe vans locate elsewhere.
An email sent to Kerry County Council in response on February 26, from Inspector Anthony Sugrue stated: "I have requested that new locations be identified and risk accessed to check suitability, regarding Castlemaine."
Councillor Flynn said he'd received complaints and had witnessed it for himself - and on one occasion the GoSafe van was blocking the cemetery gates, he said.
"It's desperate disrespectful that the speed vans would be outside a graveyard with people trying to get in to the graves of their loved ones," he said.
"People are afraid if they park behind it they'll get a parking ticket and they're being prevented from visiting the graveyard because of total ignorance," he added.
Councillor Flynn noted the graveyards are Council-owned property and bye-laws should be introduced if necessary.
He had previously been informed by the Council that An Garda Siochana determine the locations of the vans.
"If a speed van pulled up outside my driveway, I'd be perfectly entitled to move it on - so I don't see why they can't do the same," he said.

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Musical Society announces production team for 2027 show ‘Sister Act’

Killarney Musical Society has officially unveiled its star-studded production team for its highly anticipated spring 2027 staging of the hit musical Sister Act. The production will run from March 20 […]

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Killarney Musical Society has officially unveiled its star-studded production team for its highly anticipated spring 2027 staging of the hit musical Sister Act.

The production will run from March 20 to 4 next year at the Gleneagle Arena, with details regarding upcoming auditions and ticket sales expected to be announced shortly.
Award-winning director Oliver Hurley, owner of the Oliver Hurley School of Musical Theatre, returns to take the helm for what will be his 16th production with the society.
Joining the team for the first time is choreographer Barbara Meany, who was recently awarded Best Choreographer (Gilbert Section) at the prestigious Association of Irish Musical Societies (AIMS) awards.
Returning to lead the musical department is Jimmy Brockie, marking his fourth show as Musical Director for the society. Brockie will collaborate with a full live orchestra every night. Working alongside him is Sorcha O’Connor, who returns as Choral Mistress to rehearse and develop the vocal performances of the cast.
Newly appointed Public Relations Officer (PRO) for Killarney Musical Society, Lisa Campbell said:
“With such a talented production team secured, everyone at Killarney Musical Society is incredibly excited to begin work on Sister Act. We are looking forward to bringing this uplifting, hilarious, and high-energy show to local audiences at the Gleneagle Arena in March 2027.”

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Rewild Festival organisers reveal expanded line-up for 2026 event

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Organisers of the Rewild Festival have unveiled the official details for the 2026 event, which returns to the old Dunloe Golf Course on July 11.

Building on the success of previous years, the festival has expanded its schedule to include early Friday camping on 10 July, transforming the event into a multi-day experience.

The weekend begins on Friday evening with storytelling, candlelit tales, fireside sessions, and two on-site saunas.

The event will also feature an Irish festival first, offering attendees the opportunity to experience being buried in mycelium.

Saturday features 15 live acts across the main stages, all-day DJ sets, and over 20 wellness workshops covering sound baths and breathwork.

The day’s activities also include a céilí on the hill, market stalls, educational talks, children’s entertainment, fire shows, and art installations.

Live music performances will continue through Sunday, 12 July until lunchtime.

A wide selection of regional food and drink vendors will be available on-site, featuring local businesses such as Muckross Ice Cream, The Black Sheep, and Pigs Lane.

The festival bar will serve draught beers from Killarney’s newest brewery, Loinnir Brewing.

Additionally, organisers have confirmed that if the Kerry GAA team plays during the weekend, the match will be broadcast live on a big screen.

Festival co-founder Kevin Leahy noted that the crew has thoroughly enjoyed watching the community grow.

“We’ve sold over 70% of tickets and expect to sell out, so we won’t be selling tickets on the gate,” Leahy stated.

Information and remaining tickets are available on the official website at www.rewildfestival.ie, and physical tickets can be purchased directly at the Black Sheep Hostel.

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