News
Killarney Gardai tackle recreational drug use
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EXCLUSIVE
By Sean Moriarty
Provisional figures show that over 250 people were found to be in possession of illegal drugs in Killarney last year - an increase of 38 percent of the previous years 185.
Local gardai concentrated their efforts on tackling the use of recreational drugs, particularly during busy weekend activity and at night.
The local effort, named ‘Operation Snow’, was all part of a large-scale enforcement initiative in an effort to tackle recreational drug use in the town.
Local gardai particularly targeted the busy night-time trade in Killarney and worked closely with the owners and management of late bars and night clubs.
Plain clothes officers operated in late night venues and in adjoining car parks and laneways.
“I want to acknowledge the support provided by the licenced trade to this initiative,” Superintendent Flor Murphy told the Killarney Advertiser. “We specifically targeted the night-time economy in Killarney. The use of controlled recreational drugs goes hand in hand with the night-time economy in Killarney.”
Supt Murphy confirmed that the majority of those caught with drugs were from out of town, and that cocaine was the most common drug seized during weekends.
“There was a significant number of detections in relation to locals too,” Supt Murphy added. “All of these people will face prosecution, but in the case of young people, they will be dealt with under the Garda Youth Diversion Scheme.”
Drug Driving
There was also increased enforcement on the roads in Killarney in relation to illegal drugs consumption and the number of motorists caught driving while under the influence of drugs also increased. Last year 19 people were arrested compared to just six in 2018, and this also reflects national trends.
Local gardai also gave talks to the town’s secondary school students in relation to illegal drugs and this is ongoing.
“This was about preventative measures, education and awareness rather than law enforcement,” he said.
“Tackling the supply and use of controlled drugs will be a priority for Killarney Gardai in 2020 and a variety of strategies will be utilised to achieve this, both in terms of enforcement and education.”
Members of the public can use the ‘See Something/Say Something’ initiative in a confidential manner to Gardai in relation to drugs by texting ‘KILLARNEY’ and your message to 50555.
Green light for Torc Dinis walkway
Planning approval has been granted for a long-awaited lakeside walkway and cycleway connecting Torc and Dinis inside Killarney National Park.
An Coimisiún Pleanála confirmed permission for the elevated platform project, which will complete the popular scenic loop while removing a dangerous 800-metre section along the busy N71 Killarney to Kenmare road.
Walkers and cyclists currently have to navigate narrow bends alongside heavy vehicular traffic and tour buses to complete the circuit between the Dinis and Torc car parks.
Mayor of Killarney John O’Donoghue welcomed the decision, calling it a transformative development for the region: “Since beginning in the Council in 2021, this has been one of my priorities as an issue I inherited from my predecessor Michael Gleeson, he being the first person to initially pursue the idea. I have repeatedly kept it on the agenda at Council meetings and now delighted to see we finally have positive news as this decision, which has been long overdue and eagerly awaited, will prove transformative for the area.”
Mayor O’Donoghue added: “The path, which will be on the lakeside, will offer views to rival those anywhere in the world and I have no doubt will prove very popular with locals and visitors alike. Huge credit is due to Kerry County Council and the NPWS for their co-operation on the issue. Once the decision has passed through its statutory waiting period, the design and tender stage can begin.”
The project, which will be built on a raised platform to protect the natural habitat beneath, will also be fully accessible for people with mobility issues. Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce also welcomed the green light, noting that the completed loop will create a major safe attraction showcasing Muckross Lake, Dinis Cottage, and the Old Weir Bridge.
LAKESIDE PATH: An Coimisiún Pleanála has approved planning permission for a new raised walkway and cycleway connecting Torc and Dinis in Killarney National Park.
LOCAL GOLD: Terrie O’Shea, founder and owner of Killarney-based business Sorella Berries, celebrating her Gold award win at the Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards held in Dingle last week. Her hand-crafted chocolate covered strawberries secured the top spot in national competition, earning recognition for the local food producer on the national stage.
Green light for Torc to Dinis walkway
Green light for Torc Dinis walkway Planning approval has been granted for a long-awaited lakeside walkway and cycleway connecting Torc...
LOCAL GOLD:
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