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
Two local primary schools will represent Killarney on the national stage this weekend as they compete in the 2026 Credit Union Schools Quiz finals at the RDS.
The Under 11 team from Fossa National School and the Under 13 team from St Oliver’s National School have both secured their places in the grand final on Sunday, 19th April.
The journey to the RDS began in February, with both schools coming through a highly competitive local round hosted by Killarney Credit Union. They then advanced to the Chapter Level regional finals in March, where they saw off competition from schools across the county to qualify for the national decider.
The Credit Union Schools Quiz is one of the most popular events on the primary school calendar. After following a modified format in recent years, the 2026 competition has returned to its traditional live format, bringing together the top young quizzers from across Ireland.
Fossa National School will compete in Category A (Under 11s), which consists of ten rounds of challenging questions covering everything from general knowledge and history to current affairs. St Oliver’s National School will take part in the Category B (Under 13s) competition.
The event at the RDS marks the third and final stage of the competition.
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.
Killarney schools head to Dublin for National Credit Union Quiz final
Two local primary schools will represent Killarney on the national stage this weekend as they compete in the 2026 Credit...
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...
Thousands join forces for 14th annual County Clean Up
Almost 4,000 volunteers braved the elements on Saturday for the fourteenth annual County Clean Up, with 250 community groups across...
Cycling Club announces ‘Three Peaks Challenge’ for Comfort for Chemo Kerry
Killarney Cycling Club has confirmed the return of its popular Three Peaks Cycling Challenge, which will take place on Saturday,...
New Toyota models arrive at Kelliher’s Tralee
New Toyota models arrive at Kelliher’s Tralee Kelliher’s Toyota in Tralee has announced the arrival of the all-new, sixth-generation Toyota...
Fossa Swimmers make a splash at County Finals
The Fossa Swim team pictured at the Tralee Sports Complex following their successful outing at the County Finals of the...
On the Ball Part 2 of the Mikey Daly Interview
Éamonn Fitzgerald EF: Killarney Celtic are invited to participate in an Irish competition. That has big financial implications for travel,...
LUKE MANGAN recently caught up with Kerry FC’s manager, Colin Healy.
He spoke to him about his careers as a player and manager. Here’s how it went: When you began your...
Home cup tie for St Paul’s could be epic
Paudie O’Connor National Cup (Round 1) Utility Trust St Paul’s v GCU Brunell Saturday 7.30pm Killarney Sports and Leisure Centre...
Chances of Kerry v Cork Munster final in 2026 decrease as Munster GAA delay seeding plan
After facing a backlash from Limerick, Clare, Waterford and Tipperary players, Munster GAA have postponed their plan to keep Cork...
