'Enhanced engagement' planned with Kerry greenway landowners
'Enhanced engagement' with landowners in south Kerry is planned in relation to a greenway, according to local councillor, Jackie Healy-Rae.
At the May meeting of Kerry County Council, chief executive of the council, Fearghal Reidy confirmed that enhanced engagement is now set to take place with the landowners affected by the South Kerry Greenway project.
Cllr Healy-Rae said that the CEO confirmed that Kerry County Council will be engaging directly with farm organisations and that agents will also be engaging on a one-on-one basis with landowners as part of efforts to progress agreements.
Following further questioning from Cllr Jackie Healy-Rae, the CEO stated that he “hopes to have an agreement in place with all landowners by the end of 2026, but that it’s a two-way street".
South Kerry Greenway
Speaking after the meeting, Cllr. Jackie Healy-Rae welcomed the commitment made by the CEO and acknowledged the constructive nature of the engagement.
“I welcome the commitment from the chief executive that enhanced engagement is now going to take place with landowners.
"I also acknowledge the good faith in the CEO’s response and his recognition of the importance of reaching agreement with all parties involved.”
Cllr Healy-Rae said it is essential that landowners continue to be treated fairly and respectfully throughout the process.
“The South Kerry Greenway landowners are the people facilitating this project on their lands and they must be treated fairly, respectfully, and properly engaged with at every stage," the councillor added.
"Everything possible needs to be done to ensure that goodwill remains and that people feel listened to throughout this process.”
The matter follows on from the March meeting of Kerry County Council, where it emerged that the projected cost of the South Kerry Greenway is now expected to reach €72 million.
It was also confirmed that approximately one quarter of landowners had been paid at that stage.
Cllr Healy-Rae added: “This project has the potential to bring opportunities and benefits to south Kerry, but it can only be successfully delivered if there is proper engagement and trust between the council and landowners."
