A bypass is the only real solution to traffic problems in a congested town on one of the country’s busiest tourist routes, according to road engineers.

The cost of a long-awaited pier for an internationally known shell-fishing area is pushing towards €10m, it has emerged.

The crucial tourism industry is already moving up a gear in Kerry but maintenance funding for the county’s roads is not up to speed.

A lack of funding for coastal protection works is threatening homes and leading to worsening erosion along a vulnerable section of Co Kerry. 

A Kerry county councillor has failed to get the backing of chamber colleagues for a proposal to have St Patrick’s Day celebrations moved permanently to a Sunday.