News
Public outcry over council’s “decapitated” dandelions
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
Great Southern to host 20th Women’s Enterprise Day
Female entrepreneurs and budding businesswomen from across Kerry and Cork are being encouraged to register for this year’s National Women’s Enterprise Day, which marks its 20th anniversary with a flagship Southwest regional gathering at Killarney’s Great Southern Hotel.
Organised by the Local Enterprise Offices (LEO) in Kerry and Cork, the full-day event takes place on Thursday, 15 October, as part of a nationwide series of 16 events celebrating female entrepreneurship, sustainability, innovation, and networking.
The Killarney event features a keynote address by Oonagh O’Hagan, pharmacist and award-winning entrepreneur. Radio Kerry presenter and RTE Today Show panellist Elaine Kinsella will act as master of ceremonies for the day.
A major highlight will be an interactive “Leading Lights” panel discussion featuring Christina Foley, founder of Kenmare-based wellness brand Inish Living; Claire Morgan, owner of McWilliam Bags in Crosshaven; Shannen O’Reilly, founder of food allergy management app TrustDish; and Virginia O’Gara, co-founder of My Goodness and the Cork Urban Soil Project.
Proceedings will open with a warm-up session led by wellbeing professional Paola Kennedy. A new “Homegrown Hero” segment will feature a fireside chat between Elaine Kinsella and Louise Quill, founder of the Tír na nÓg Children’s Foundation.
Fiona Leahy of Kerry Local Enterprise Office highlighted the milestone anniversary for the region’s businesswomen, stating: “For two decades, National Women’s Enterprise Day has been about more than one day of events. It has been about creating space for women in business to connect, learn, share their experiences and access the practical supports that can help them move forward with confidence.
“Across the Local Enterprise Office network, we see every day the ambition, creativity and resilience of women entrepreneurs in every county. Our role is to help turn that ambition into sustainable businesses through mentoring, training, funding, expert advice and connections. As we celebrate 20 years of NWED, we want to recognise the businesses that have been supported along the way and encourage even more women to take the next step, whether they are starting out, scaling up or looking to reach new markets.”
Peter Burke, T.D., Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, noted the significance of the national initiative, saying: “National Women’s Enterprise Day is a hugely important date in the enterprise calendar. It is an opportunity to recognise the real progress that has been made in supporting women in business across Ireland. It is also a celebration of the ambition, innovation and resilience of female entrepreneurs who are building successful businesses in sectors from agtech and manufacturing to fashion and food.
“These are business leaders with the drive and confidence to grow beyond Ireland and compete on the global stage. As we look ahead, we must continue to ensure that women entrepreneurs have access to the supports, networks and opportunities they need to start, scale and succeed.”
Further information and ticket bookings for the Great Southern Hotel event are available online at www.LocalEnterprise.ie/NWED.
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