News
NCT confusion following test lift failures
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By Sean Moriarty
Killarney motorists could face weeks of driving around in potentially dangerous cars after the National Car Test Service made the decision to temporarily discontinue the use of vehicle inspection lifts in 47 centres nationwide.
However, the National Car Test Service is advising owners to continue attending their scheduled appointments – following the discovery of defective lifts in Northern Ireland on Monday.
Full inspections will not be carried out due to issues on lifts in all 47 centres across Ireland, including Killarney, now have to be checked. Drivers are advised to book their NCT as normal.
“All customers should continue to book and turn up for their NCT as normal. The test will be completed with the omission of the underbody inspection, which will be conducted at a later date when the lifts are returned to use. All other elements of the test including lights, emissions, upper body exterior, vehicle interior, brakes, suspension and wheel alignment will be tested as normal,” a statement said.
One local garage owner, who brings several cars a week to the NCT test centre in Killarney, raised concerns about potentially dangerous cars being allowed on the road and that people need to be informed on where they stand if they were stopped by An Garda Siochana. Driving a car without a valid NCT cert carries a €2,000 fine and up to five penalty points.
“The RSA are the ones stopping drivers to check for certs and now they can’t offer a proper test,” said the well-known car dealer, who did not want to be named. “What happens if there is an accident, will your insurance cover you? How can you tell if a car is roadworthy or if it has bits falling off it without a proper test.”
The RSA put the onus of roadworthiness back on the owner or driver and sad that it did write to An Garda Siochana explaining the issues.
“The RSA have made the Gardaí aware of the issue and is liaising with them on any potential issues arising. All vehicle owners are reminded that the roadworthiness of their vehicle is their responsibility at all times not just at the NCT,” said the statement.
However, Killarney Gardai confirmed that they have not been briefed on the matter.
“We have not been given any direction,” said a station officer when contacted by the Killarney Advertiser yesterday (Thursday) afternoon. “Drivers need to appear for the test anyway.”
Dr Crokes stalwarts enjoy lake cruise
Dr Crokes GAA Club hosted a special day out for its senior members on Monday, this week, taking a group aged between 70 and 90 on a cruise across the Lakes of Killarney.
Organised by the Dr Crokes Healthy Club committee under its Crokes Cruisers initiative, the event was held to recognise the lifetime contribution made by long-standing members who continue to support club activities behind the scenes.
The group travelled on two vessels, including An Cathal, an open boat operated by local brothers Tony and Mike Fleming. Built to preserve the traditional Killarney lake boat style, it is the only purpose-built, fully accessible boat on the lakes, allowing members with mobility issues and wheelchair users to safely join the two-hour trip.
Following the lake tour, the party gathered on shore for coffee and refreshments provided by Derric McMahon and Harry Clifton of the Ross Castle Garden Cafe.
The initiative forms part of the club’s ongoing community work as a Gold Award winner in the GAA Healthy Club programme.
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.
Dr Crokes stalwarts enjoy lake cruise
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