The Killarney Advertiser has been flooded with correspondence from concerned residents following last week’s report on the mowing of roadside margins teeming with wildflowers.

In what has become a major talking point across the town, readers have hit out at the Killarney Municipal District. They are echoing the frustrations of local man Niall Keogh, who criticised the council for cutting down dandelions that serve as a vital early-season food source for pollinators.
The consensus among those who contacted us is clear: the current mowing schedule is seen as being completely out of step with biodiversity needs and national environmental policy.
Residents demand a change in policy
“Wildflowers such as dandelions should be left for pollinators. ‘Tidy’ often means devoid of nature, and certainly devoid of diversity,” said Annette Dalton. “There is no reason why the flowering plants in green spaces should be cut back or destroyed while they are providing desperately needed food. We can effect change for the better from the ground up.”
Other readers questioned the logic behind how council resources are being allocated. “The council seems happy to fund this destruction yet rely on volunteers to remove plastic litter from our roadside and invasive species from the park,” said Noreen O’Brien.
Lack of consultation criticised
Significant concerns were raised regarding a perceived lack of expert oversight before the mowers were sent out. “I do not understand it; they looked stunning. I would love to know if the biodiversity officer was involved in this decision,” said Annette Corboy.
Ulrich added that the council “seems not to think or consult with relevant parties,” while Sheila O’Shea stated that “the current schedule is based on ignorance and a lack of caring.”
Cornelius Doyle suggested that protecting these habitats is no longer a matter of personal taste but a scientific necessity. “It’s an objective fact; to seek opinions is akin to asking people if they agree with wearing seat belts.”
Calls for “No Mow May”
The controversy highlights the growing support for the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan, which encourages local authorities to avoid mowing until late May to allow native species to thrive. Residents argue that Killarney should be leading the way in these conservation efforts rather than prioritising a “neat” appearance at the expense of the environment.
Meanwhile, Mr Keogh has shared new photos of the remaining dandelions currently blooming around the town.

Photo: Niall Keogh

Almost 4,000 volunteers braved the elements on Saturday for the fourteenth annual County Clean Up, with 250 community groups across Kerry taking part in the massive environmental effort.

Since the initiative began in 2012, more than 650 tonnes of waste have been collected and disposed of, making it one of the largest community-led events in the country. Supported by KWD Recycling and Kerry County Council, the project has seen almost 75,000 bags of litter removed from roadsides and public spaces over the years.
Despite the wind and rain, participants were out early to ensure the county was looking its best. The Cathaoirleach of Kerry County Council, Cllr Michael Foley, praised the scale of the volunteerism on display.
“The annual County Clean Up makes an enormous contribution to improving the appearance of our roadsides, towns, and villages,” Cllr Foley said. “This is particularly important ahead of the busy tourist season and as areas prepare for the Tidy Towns Competition. I congratulate everyone who put their shoulder to the wheel.”
He also highlighted the unique nature of the Kerry event, noting its longevity and the sheer volume of waste removed. He extended his thanks to KWD Recycling for managing the distribution of equipment and the final collection of the waste gathered by the volunteers.