In the aftermath of a devastating fire in Killarney National Park, one of Ireland’s most iconic landscapes, state agencies and conservationists are counting the costs and trying to find a way to
With the return of inter-county travel from May 10th meaning more trips to wild and rural places, it's a good time to think about how to staycation in a more responsible manner this summer.
Image source: Irish Natura and Hill Farmers Association
Recent fire devastation in Killarney National Park in Co. Kerry and the Mourne Mountains in Co. Down, has spurred Mountaineering Ireland to call for “vigilance, enforcement and long-term planning” to prevent similar fires in the future.
It is estimated that 2,500-3,000ha – approximately 50% of the land area – of Killarney National Park has been damaged, while more than 200ha – approximately one third of the land owned by the National Trust – were destroyed in the Mournes.
The representative body for hillwalkers and climbers in Ireland has welcomed the announcement that 50 additional conservation rangers will be recruited to work with the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS).
Nothing suspicious about Killarney National Park fire at this point in garda investigation
Apr 30, 2021 17:04
By radiokerrynews
The aftermath of the devastating fire in Killarney National Park, at the Eagles Nest, along the Long Range River. Photo: Valerie O Sullivan/ FREE PIC/NPWS/ISSUED 27/04/2021
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There s no indication of anything suspicious about the fire in Killarney National Park at this point in the garda investigation.
That s according to Chief Superintendent of the Kerry Garda Division, Eileen Foster.
An update on the investigation was given at the latest meeting of the county s Joint Policing Committee.
Questions were submitted ahead of the meeting by members of the public relating to the fire in Killarney National Park last weekend.
996 farmers have this week shared nearly half a million euro in Hen Harrier Project bonus payments.
Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture Pippa Hackett has welcomed the news, saying that the payments are “in recognition of these farmers’ success in delivering habitats for hen harriers and other wildlife”.
The payments, which total €483,927, are paid under the €25 million hen harrier programme funded by Minister Hackett’s department under the Rural Development Programme.
Fires in upland areas
The minister said that in a week “dominated by reports of fires in our upland areas, it is a relief to get some good news”.