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Storm Barra hits Christmas in Killarney festival

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The Christmas in Killarney committee has been left counting the cost of a devastating blow during Storm Barra which damaged a number of the spectacular floats that feature in the festive season magical parades.

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The painstakingly created artistic floats were housed in a heavy-duty, purpose acquired marquee in the grounds of Fitzgerald Stadium from where the parades commence on Saturday nights.

The marquee had been secured in a walled-in corner of the outside pitch on the Lewis Road side of the stadium but the sheer force of the violent gusts ripped the structure open and caused significant damage to some of the floats.

“We are still assessing the cost of the damage but we expect that it will at least run to a couple of thousand euro such was the ornate features of the floats,” said Christmas in Killarney Chairman and Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce President Niall Kelleher.

“The annual costs involved in running the Christmas in Killarney festival are very considerable and this was a big setback because, in the current climate, generating financial support was proving very difficult,” he added.

“If people want to offer support at this stage, they can donate online or buy a bulb for the Tree of Light Shine A Light project at one of the participating stores.”

It is understood that the damage occurred just before lunchtime on Tuesday when Killarney was taking a real battering with trees being knocked and slates ripped off buildings.

Another added cost for the festival organisers is the impact the red alert storm had on the spectacular Tree of Light on the grounds of St Mary’s Cathedral.

A number of the 4,500 energy-efficient feature bulbs on the 100ft tree were blown about in the strong gales with the connections becoming loose and there will be significant work and costs involved in repairing the damage.

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Overnight water restrictions in Greater Killarney

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Overnight water restrictions in Greater Killarney

Uisce Éireann has introduced overnight water restrictions across parts of Greater Killarney to help reservoir levels recover during the current spell of warm weather.

The restrictions will take effect tonight from 9pm until 7am tomorrow morning. Areas affected include Aghadoe, Beaufort, and Listry on the Mid-Kerry Water Supply Scheme.

Increased demand during the warm weather has meant treated water is being used faster than it can be produced. Uisce Éireann stated that the nighttime shut-offs are necessary to protect the daytime supply for homes, businesses, and essential services.

Operations manager Eoin O’Connell urged local residents and businesses to conserve water where possible:

“Nighttime restrictions are being implemented to support treated reservoir recovery and maintain daytime supply. Conserving water will help protect resources and maintain supply for all. When there is an increase in temperatures it leads to a rise in demand for water. Water is a hugely precious resource, and it is important to conserve water.”

Uisce Éireann is monitoring water levels daily and will conduct a further operational assessment later this week.

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West End and Great Southern team up for theatre experience

A powerful production of one of Ireland’s most celebrated contemporary plays is coming to the Killarney stage this month. In an exciting joint venture, the West End House School of […]

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A powerful production of one of Ireland’s most celebrated contemporary plays is coming to the Killarney stage this month.
In an exciting joint venture, the West End House School of Arts has partnered with the Great Southern Killarney to offer audiences an unrivaled theatre experience.

The West End Players Ensemble will present By the Bog of Cats, Marina Carr’s haunting and critically acclaimed masterpiece, on Wednesday, July 29 and Thursday, July 30 at 8:00pm at the town centre hotel.

Charlie Hughes, the show’s director and Head Tutor at West End House School of Arts, expressed great pride in the milestone, stating he is “so proud that our five years in operation here in Killarney have been able to support and develop such talented local actors to stage this production”.
Set against the stark beauty of the Irish midlands, the compelling drama tells the unforgettable story of Hester Swane, a fiercely independent woman determined to hold on to her home, her daughter, and her place in the world. Rich in Irish folklore, dark humour, and unforgettable characters, Carr’s masterpiece explores themes of love, betrayal, identity, and the enduring pull of the past, offering an unflinching portrait of Irish society.
Maria O’Meara, Director of Rooms at Great Southern Killarney, welcomed the production, saying, “Welcoming such a gripping and powerful production into the hotel is a wonderful way to celebrate creativity and culture. Creating memorable experiences has always been at the heart of the Great Southern Killarney, and we are proud to host an evening that brings people together through the arts.”
Theatregoers can enjoy an exclusive pre-theatre dining experience. A special menu will be available at the five-star Great Southern Hotel’s Arbor Restaurant for €55 per person. Dining reservations can be secured in advance by calling 086 663 8000 or by emailing events@greatsouthernkillarney.com.
The play runs for two hours, including a brief intermission, and is suitable for audiences aged 16 and over. Show tickets must be booked in advance online via Eventbrite at https://bythebogofcats.eventbrite.com

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