The traffic gridlock in Killarney is having a significant negative effect on business, health and lifestyle in the town itself and the county, according to Fianna Fáil Councillor Michael Cahill.

The Listowel Bypass was officially opened on Monday by Taoiseach Simon Harris.

Cahill cannot understand why the Listowel project is now completed yet the much-need Killarney road cannot get beyond the planning stages.

“There is a major business cost to Killarney being unattractive to visitors, due to the town being blocked by buses, trucks and cars, some of which are only passing through,” said Cahill.

“Delivering goods in the town is a nightmare and travelling into a medical, dental or optician’s appointment requires adding an hour to your timescale. It is also a nightmare for all those employed in maintenance such as electricians, plumbers, and carpenters when trying to get from A to B when the town is clogged up.”

"Locals and visitors alike are sick of it and the Department of Transport and Minister Eamon Ryan must get off their backsides now and move this project on to the construction stage as the life is being choked out of Killarney town and surrounding areas.”

The new Listowel Bypass will divert 7,000 vehicles per day away from Listowel town centre and will greatly enhance infrastructure and accessibility in north Kerry.

The €62m N69 Listowel Bypass is a six-kilometre western and northern bypass of Listowel town centre. The new road consists of approximately 3.6km of new road, 2.3km of on-line improvement of the existing network and 1.5km of new roundabouts and improvements at junctions.

The Taoiseach was joined at the official opening by the Cathaoirleach and Chief Executive of Kerry County Council, the Chief Executive of Transport Infrastructure Ireland and local landowners who facilitated the construction of the road.

The councillor emphasises the urgent need for the Killarney Farranfore Bypass to alleviate congestion and revitalize the town. He calls on the Department of Transport and Minister Eamon Ryan to prioritize this project and expedite its construction.