ONE of the more interesting innovations in Irish tourism in recent years has been the development of abandoned railway lines as greenways for cyclists and walkers, helping to make ecotourism a key niche market.

Bridges and tunnels on an abandoned railway line, earmarked for a walking and cycling route on the Ring of Kerry, are to be examined to determine their structural condition.

FARMER Muiris O’Donoghue is also involved in Valentia Island’s car-ferry service. Along with four other families on the island, he and his wife have a 20% share in the business, which was started in 1996.