SOME things most definitely never change — the compelling beauty of Killarney, hordes of American tourists alighting from buses, boats on the lakes and the age-old Gap of Dunloe.

TURF cutting may be banned several years before an anticipated ban comes into force. The turf-cutting season is well underway, but it could be one of the last.

DOOR-TO-DOOR canvassing is a great eye-opener, you might even say an education, for politicians in regard to changes in the countryside.

TWO out of every five Irish families visit a forest each year and it’s a fair bet that May is among the most popular months for such visitation. Many people regard May as the most beautiful month of the year, a time when nature is renewed and in full bloom.

THE native red squirrel, once a common animal in many parts of the country, is under threat from the American grey squirrel which came here about 100 years ago.

ONE of the consequences of massive development has been the destruction of boglands.

WINDFARMS provide energy, may be environmentally-friendly and welcome — until they interfere with your television reception.

HIDDEN gems continue to be unveiled in Killarney National Park.

ANGLERS are, arguably, the best watchdogs you can have regarding water quality. They are the first to take note when things go wrong, but all too often the powers-that-be do not listen to them.

IRISH people still clinging the old faith probably ate fish on Good Friday, even if some of the traditionalists might have been reluctant enough about it.