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Southern Trail News...
"Friends of the Great Southern Trail" Meeting: Leen's Hotel, Abbeyfeale; 8pm
Thursday 15 February 2018. Christmas Walk 2017
Over 200 people of all ages had a most
enjoyable 10km walk or cycle along the old railway from Barnagh(N21) to
Newcastle West on Wednesday 27 December 2017. The event was organised by the
GST www.southerntrail.net Great
Southern Trail Ltd., the voluntary group that campaigned, developed and
managed the Greenway until 2015). We were blessed with the weather on the
day, crisp and bright. It was great to meet old and new faces including
participants from our neighbouring counties of Kerry and Cork along with
visitors from further afield. Christmas Walk 2017
The annual Christmas Walk along the Great
Southern Trail Greenway will take place on Wednesday 27th December at
12.30p.m. Assembly is at the newly opened Longcourt House Hotel , St. Mary's
Road, Newcastle West. The hotel is on the N21 and the public bus services
stop alongside it. Walkers will be transferred by courtesy coach to Barnagh
from where they will walk the 6 miles [10km], all downhill and mostly along
the old railway, back to the Longcourt House where they can enjoy seasonal
mince pies, whipped cream and tea/coffee at their leisure. All walkers must
wear visibility vests as the final section is through the streets of
Newcastle West and involves crossing the busy N21 which must be crossed at
the zebra crossing close to the hotel. Cyclists, with visibility gear,
helmets and lights, are also welcome and we suggest that they also meet at
the hotel at 12.30p.m. and cycle outwards along the Greenway for
approximately one hour to Barnagh or beyond and then return in time to enjoy
the refreshments. Nollaig Shona do gach éinne agus beidh fáilte romhat ar an
27ú.
New Great Southern Trail Greenway townland signs
This is one of the 30+ townland signs which
are being erected along the 40km Greenway route from Rathkeale westwards to
the Kerry Border. These signs will remind locals and visitors of a very
important part of our Irish heritage. [Tulaigh Ó Laighin is in the Parish of
Templeglantine]
Annual Christmas Walk The annual Christmas Walk along the Great Southern Trail Greenway will take place on Wednesday 27th December at 12.30p.m.. Assembly is at the newly opened Longcourt
House Hotel (formerly
the Courtenay Lodge), St. Mary's Road, Newcastle West. The hotel is on the
N21 and the public bus services stop alongside it. Walkers will be
transferred by courtesy coach to Barnagh from where they will walk the 6
miles[10km], all downhill and mostly along the old railway, back to the
Longcourt House where they can enjoy seasonal mince pies, whipped cream and
tea/coffee at their leisure. All walkers must wear visibility vests as the
final section is through the streets of Newcastle West and involves crossing
the busy N21 which must be crossed at the zebra crossing close to the hotel.
Cyclists, with visibility gear, helmets and lights, are also welcome and we
suggest that they also meet at the hotel at 12.30p.m. and cycle outwards
along the Greenway for approximately one hour to Barnagh or beyond and then
return in time to enjoy the refreshments. Beidh fáilte roimh gach éinne ar
an lá.
Book Launch Twilight Years . On Friday 22 September at 7p.m. Newcastle West Library will host the launching of "Limerick & Kerry Railway: Twilight Years": a personal chronicle by Liam O'Mahony of the railway operations and the personnel who worked for CIÉ in West Limerick/North Kerry from the 1950's to the 1980's. The book also contains a reproduction of a 19th century illustrated travel guide extolling the attractions in the hinterland. Also included are original documents providing a full listing of the hundreds of shareholders who invested in the 1860's construction of the Rathkeale & Newcastle Junction Railway and the outcome that befell them. The publication, published by the Great Southern Trail Ltd., hosts a wide range of photographs and colour posters as well as the local newspaper records of the years which witnessed the railway demise and the beginnings of the Greenway era. The book will be launched by Newcastle West native, Dr. Patrick J. O'Connor, following a slide show at 7pm to mark Culture Night as well as the 150th anniversary year of the coming of the railway to Newcastle West. Beidh fáilte roimh gach éinne ar an oíche. Great Southern Trail Ltd. press statement on Rathkeale/Adare Councillors Greenway decision. The Great Southern Trail Ltd. Board of Directors(GST) is extremely disappointed with the recent decision of the Rathkeale/Adare Municipal District Councillors to reject their own officials plan to extend the 40km Greenway by a mere 3km to enable a link from Rathkeale to Ballingrane Junction. The GST rejects as a spurious excuse the announcement by District Cathaoirleach, Cllr. Richard O'Donoghue, that this decision was arrived at to save money due to a short section of the 3km requiring realignment during the next ten or so years to facilitate the new road link to Foynes. Any lands necessary for this new road project will be acquired and compensation paid by Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) without any cost to Limerick Council. The six local councillors appear oblivious to the considerable time and money spent by their officials in planning/consultation for the extension which would have protected the State owned corridor from interference and immediately provided a safe walking/cycling path between Rathkeale and Cappagh, along with quiet bye road links for cyclists to Adare. They also did not consider that there is an active fibre optic cable under this route which will also be costly to relocate, in the advent of a new road, irrespective of it being covered by a pathway or not. Had these councillors only concern been financial, why did they hold lengthy meetings on two occasions with the public and media excluded? Rather, we ask is their real reason for secrecy resulting from their being lobbied by a small group of objectors? Instead of dealing openly with the concerns, arguments and old fears, which have been shown to be without basis in the existing Greenway which stretches 40km westwards from Rathkeale and in the several other successful Irish Greenways, these closed doors meetings have added nothing but confusion and unnecessary delay to this vital piece of tourism infrastructure for Limerick West. On 28 & 29 September Adare will be hosting an international conference organised by the European Greenways Association(EGWA) in association with Limerick Council. This biennial event was attracted to Adare through the offices of the voluntary GST Ltd. which has long been a member of EGWA. The six district councillors are most welcome be in attendance at these events to hear of the positive benefits of Greenways throughout Europe to rural communities. These benefits have been witnessed firsthand by the GST on its group visits to Spain, Germany, Belgium and Italy over the years. The GST has also made several visits to the Irish Greenways; the latest this 26 August to the "Old Rail Trail" between Mullingar and Athlone. In each and everyone of these communities the locals are enjoying the amenity and attracting visitors as does our local 40km Great Southern Greenway. The Rathkeale district councillors have a particular responsibility not just to the communities of Cappagh, Ballingrane and Rathkeale but to all the communities along the full length of the Greenway and to the citizens of Limerick, Patrickswell and Adare who would love to use this facility. We therefore call on the councillors concerned to immediately review their hesitant stand on the Greenway, to inform themselves of the benefits by visiting the recently completed Waterford Greenway; to host a seminar in Rathkeale for the people of their District where all the concerns may be discussed openly; without doors being closed to anyone. West Limerick and North Kerry have been neglected for too long, by a poverty of vision, from having the longest Greenway in the country; a proposal first suggested thirty years ago. Often the blame for this neglect has been placed on national politicians but even greater responsibility rests with local councillors. (Contact 087 647 1956 for any clarification) Greenway plans for Limerick to be discussed further
Great Southern Trail outing to Westmeath Greenway. On Saturday 26th August we hope to visit the "Old Rail Trail" County Westmeath Greenway which links Mullingar with Athlone. The option of walking various lengths or cycling the entire 25mile/40km route will be provided (bike hire will be extra). Coach departs from Newcastle West, Market Yard at 8 a.m. with a breakfast stop in Birr and evening dinner in Moate included for €50 (bike hire will be extra). If interested please contact Pat Condon, Upper Maiden St., Newcastle West 069 62344 (phone preferably between 5-6pm) without delay as all of our previous day trips have been fully booked. Beidh fáilte romhat. Great Southern Trail celebrates 200 Years of the Bicycle.
The first bicycle journey was undertaken by
Karl Drais in Mannheim, Germany in June 1817. The Great Southern Trail
wishes to mark the bicentenary this weekend on the 10th &11th of June. Upgrade works begin on Great Southern Greenway Limerick
Infrastructure enhancement works are to
begin on the Great South Greenway Limerick (GSGL) in the west of the county
following the signing of contracts between Limerick City and County Council
and Roadbridge Ltd. https://www.limerick.ie/council/newsroom/news/upgrade-works-begin-great-southern-greenway-limerick European Greenways Award and General Assembly ! 28-29 September/ Limerick-Ireland The general schedule of the 8th European Greenways Award http://www.europeangreenwaysaward.org ceremony, and EGWA General Assembly.
Great Southern Trail visit to Waterford Greenway. On the May 1st Bank Holiday a group of 40 GST supporters from Limerick and Kerry visited the newly completed Waterford Greenway with some participants cycling the entire 25 miles while the others either cycled or walked shorter sections with some walking 10 miles. The beautiful weather, the excellent refreshment and meal stops along with Phelim's comfortable coach and most accommodating driver, Pat Liston, ensured that everyone returned home happy and contented. Our next visit is likely to be to the Athlone-Mullingar Greenway on or about Saturday August 26th. Bí linn agus fáilte.
Templeglantine GST
Greenway Easter Monday Historical Walk.
Easter Monday bilingual
walk at 2pm from Barnagh (N21 Layby) to Devon Road Station along the Great
Southern Trail Greenway. This walk of over 4 miles is being
organised by Templeglantine Glór na nGael to mark the 140th year since this
section of the old railway began to be constructed. It will be a leisurely
walk with chat as Béarla agus Gaeilge. Beidh fáilte roimh gach éinne. Abbeyfeale section re-open
Great Southern Trail outings to Waterford & England. On Bank Holiday Monday May 1st we hope to
visit the Waterford Greenway again; all 46km/29miles of which will be open
by then. 1867 Railway Line
On 1/1/1867 the railway line from
Ballingrane to Newcastle West opened for business. The Great Southern Trail
Greenway now passes by the Station houses at Rathkeale, Ardagh and Newcastle
West. If you haven't been along the Greenway make a New Year resolution to
walk, jog or cycle the route. About 100 people did just that on the Annual
Christmas event of 27th December and greatly enjoyed the experience. Collapsed Culvert Due to a collapsed culvert a few hundred
metres east of Abbeyfeale Station walkers/cyclists to and from
Templeglantine should access the Greenway at the "Doctor's Bridge" which is
1.5 miles east of Abbeyfeale and take due care when on the public road. The
Abbeyfeale to Kerry Border section is not affected. The culvert should be
repaired by the end of January 2017.
Rails through North Kerry There was a large attendance at Foynes Flying Boat Museum on Saturday 26th November for the launching of "Rails through North Kerry" by Lady Geraldine Dunraven. The book details all the railways in West
Limerick and North Kerry along with Croom, Bruree and Castleisland. The text
is complemented with about 180 photographs (mostly in colour) which bring
back to life the old lines and their Stations; several of which are now
alongside the Great Southern Trail.
Jonathan Beaumont(co-author), Lady
Geraldine Dunraven, Barry Carse co-author. Happy Christmas
The Great Southern Trail Ltd. wishes all
its supporters and friends a very Happy Christmas and invites them to
participate in the Christmas Cycle/Walk along the Greenway. Cyclists will
set out from the Newcastle West (Gaelscoil on Station Road) at 1.30 p.m. on
Tuesday 27th December and walkers will leave from Ardagh Community Hall at
the same time. The destination for both groups is Rathkeale where tea/coffee
and mince pies will be provided at Rathkeale House Hotel. Cyclists will
return on their bikes to Newcastle West (total distance 16miles/26km).
Walkers only have to cover 5miles/8km as they will be returned to Ardagh at
4.30pm by bus with Coach House Travel. Nollaig Shona agus gach dea-ghuí san
Bhliain Nua! The AGM of the Great Southern Trail Ltd The AGM of the Great Southern Trail Ltd.
has planned a Christmas Cycle/Walk along the Greenway. Cyclists will set out
from the Newcastle West (Gaelscoil on Station Road) at 1.30 p.m. on Tuesday
27th December and walkers will leave from Ardagh Community Hall at the same
time. The destination for both groups is Rathkeale where there will be a
stop for refreshments. Cyclists will return by bike to Newcastle West (total
distance 16miles/26km). Walkers only have to cover 5miles/8km as they will
be provided with a return coach. Launch of New Railway Book in Foynes
On Saturday 26th November 2016 at 2p.m. all are welcome to the launch of a new book on the railways of West Limerick and North Kerry. As the first of these railways to be constructed was the one to Foynes in 1853 the launch will take place in the Foynes Flying Boat Museum. At 2.45p.m. Lady Geraldine Dunraven will formally launch the book in commemoration of the then Earl of Dunraven being the first Chairman of the Limerick & Foynes Railway Company. The book is primarily a photographic record of the railways which served the Limerick to Tralee route (now partially converted into the Great Southern Trail Greenway) along with the branch lines to Bruree, Croom, Mungret Cement Factory, Askeaton, Foynes, Fenit and Castleisland. The book has been compiled by railway historians Jonathan Beaumont and Barry Carse who have sourced a very wide and representative selection of photographs to illustrate the publication which is being produced by Colourpoint Books. Beidh fáilte roimh gach éinne ar an lá. GST Public Meeting
On Thursday 17th November at 8.30p.m in Leen's
Hotel, Abbeyfeale a meeting of the "Friends of the Great Southern Trail"
will take place. All supporters of the GST are welcome to attend.
The further development and enhancement of the Great Southern Trail is gathering momentum. Recent funding totalling €1.3million has already been allocated for the upgrading of the 40km Rathkeale to Kerry Border section and planning of a link to Adare and Limerick City is being studied. On the Kerry side of the border the county's Tourism Strategy and Action Plan 2016-2022 was launched on October 21st.
The developments of the Border-Listowel and
Tralee-Fenit sections are given priority status (see attachments:
paragraphs 1.7.2 and
1.7.3) although the
Listowel-Tralee section is listed as a longer term project (attachment:
paragraph 1.7.4). Falling Gradient
Joe Coleman, Author, extends an invitation to the launch of his new book "Falling Gradient" at 6pm on Friday September 30th in the Granary Library, Michael St., Limerick.
The book features all the railways which
served Limerick City and gives considerable attention to the North Kerry
Line which ran from Limerick via Newcastle West and Listowel to Tralee and
is now the Great Southern Trail Greenway route. see attachments
one
two
three Weekly Observer announces €291k for the GST On 7th Sept. West Limerick's "Weekly Observer" announces €291k for the GST(see attachments) Limerick Leader Interview with Norma Prendiville of "Limerick Leader" issue 10/9/16 section one and section two Application has gone in from KCC to Fáilte Ireland On 6th September llr.Jimmy Moloney, Listowel Municipal District informs that an application has gone in from KCC to Fáilte Ireland for a grant for the extension of the GST. ( Capital grants over €200,000) http://www.failteireland.ie/Waterford [Déise] Greenway Subsequent to my email of 10 days ago the 'Dungarvan Observer' published a three page article on the voluntary group who campaigned for the Waterford [Déise] Greenway. This article (attached) highlights how volunteers were able to effect a change of mind among politicians and give support to the Waterford Council Management in their effort to deliver the Greenway. Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 However, as I have said already, Government funding will be needed to ensure that the entirety of the 50km corridor from the Limerick/Kerry Border to Fenit will be rapidly developed as a recreational amenity. Kerry County Council Management is fully behind the project but they will need funding from Government to achieve their goal. It is therefore important that all eight Kerry representatives in the Dáil and Seanad be made aware by you, as well as by your family and friends, that you want them to actively support this initiative.
Their emails are as follows:
Saturday August 27th tour
to Waterford City & Greenway
To: Great Southern Trail
contacts: August Day Trip to Waterford Greenway
On Saturday 27th August a coach will depart
from the Market Yard, Newcastle West at 8 a.m. to visit the Kilmeaden to
Waterford City section of the new Déise Greenway. Walk options of 4 or 6
miles will be available, all downhill as the route is alongside the river
Suir. Afterwards, there will be ample time in the afternoon for a couple of
hours exploring Ireland's oldest city. This will provide an opportunity to
visit the museums and Waterford Glass centre or simply to enjoy the
afternoon open-air musical recitals provided as part of the 'Summerval'
festival. Keeping the Waterford Greenway on Track
A headline in a January 2004 edition of this
newspaper declared that Waterford was to become the “Walking Capital of
Ireland”. Further enhancement of Great Southern Trail in Limerick
Spain's "Via Verde de la Sierra" visited the Great Southern Trail Members of the management team in charge of Spain's "Via Verde de la Sierra" visited the Great Southern Trail on Thursday 16th June. They walked sections of the Greenway at Rathkeale, Ardagh, Newcastle West, Barnagh Tunnel and Tullig Wood. Their Greenway is in the Andalucía Region and about 40 minutes from Seville.
On Sunday a group of walkers from Nenagh assembled at Barnagh Lay-by prior to their 15km walk along the Great Southern Trail from Devon Road Station to Glendarragh and then over the forest roads to Glenagowan before returning to Barnagh along the GST via Ferguson's Viaduct. Day Trip to Waterford Greenway On Bank Holiday Monday May 2nd a coach will depart from the Market Yard, Newcastle West at 8.30a.m. There will be a stop for Breakfast in Mitchelstown before continuing along via the very scenic Vee Gap in the Knockmealdown Mountains to the seaside town of Dungarvan. In the afternoon we will travel along the Coast Road for a few miles and then transfer from the coach to 'shank's mare' and return to Dungarvan along the brand new Waterford Greenway. This route has been constructed by Waterford Council along an old railway route replete with viaducts and a tunnel; not to mention stunning views. A full four course evening meal will be provided before returning home. Booking is with Pat Condon, Upper Maiden St., Newcastle West 069 62344 (3-6pm preferably). The cost is €45 which includes breakfast, evening dinner and coach travel. Early booking is advisable and all monies must be received by Friday 22nd April. Cheques should be made payable to "GREAT SOUTHERN TRAIL LTD." who are organising the tour. Beidh fáilte romhat. Waterford Excel - Kerry Yet to Turn a Sod Two years ago Waterford City & County Council and Kerry County Council were both awarded State funding for developing Greenways along old railways. Waterford, as you can see from the attachments, will have excelled themselves and actually delivered double the expected route length before the end of 2016. The result will be a 50km state of the art cycleway along the CIÉ owned line. Waterford Council are now encouraging private enterprises to take advantage of their superb new amenity. Kerry hasn't yet turned a sod along their Glenbeigh- Cahersiveen project which was promoted as being "shovel ready" two years ago; a statement still being contested by some of the private landowners who now own that old railway. Meanwhile, the former North Kerry line, still in State ownership(like Waterford), languishes; there being no apparent impetus by Kerry County Council to develop it and thereby extend the 40km West Limerick Great Southern Trail Greenway to Listowel, Tralee and Fenit by a further 50km. Thus, the opportunity to have Ireland's longest Greenway at the doorstep of Kerry and Shannon airports is being lost and so is the spinoff to local businesses. Kerry has deservedly been accorded accolades for its scenes in Star Wars. Unfortunately, when it comes to Greenways it is definitely orbiting in a different planetary system to Waterford. See photos below...
Liam O'Mahony,
Utilising the Great Southern Trail Greenway to bring gas to North Kerry
An open letter to the communities of West
Limerick and North Kerry. The recent announcement see link here:
http://m.independent.ie/regionals/kerryman/news/gas-times-ahead-for-kerry-group-34399252.html
that a gas pipeline connection from near Aughinish, Co. Limerick to Listowel
is to be provided is most interesting. Never ending Kerry Prevarication Continues 29 years ago the Great Southern Trail Greenway project was conceived by politicians as was recorded in the "Limerick Leader" of 4th July 1987 (see attached press cutting). It was to be Ireland's first rail-trail. Is it possible that the Co. Kerry half of this cycle path could be delivered by our politicians without further ado? As the situation stands the never ending Kerry prevarication continues while other local authorities have adopted a "get up and go" policy and are delivering new Greenways to their communities.
Liam O Mahony We last Walked the Tralee to Fenit Line in protest nearly four years ago in April 2012.
Since then the Tralee Urban section has been completed and proving as expected to be a great asset to the town. Walk with family & friends on Sunday next February 7th to celebrate this success and also to publicly highlight the absence of any meaningful progress on the conversion of the rural section from Tralee to Fenit. Kerry County Council now have full authority from CIE to proceed with the development of this publicly owned disused rail line but again there is a lack of will to see this fantastic project through to completion. Why is this?. Please ask your canvassing politicians who will hopefully be in attendance. Provide a safe off-road route for commuters and our children? Cycle a Greenway from a mainline train station to a Blue Flag Beach? Click here to see the potential and preview some spectacular new aerial footage at TraleeFenit Greenway. Click here for the walk Details and print off the poster for circulation. Hoping to see you at St. Brendans Church on Sunday 7th next at 2.30. Sincerely, Joe Cotter, Mike O'Neill, David Slattery, Margaret Lynch,Tom O'Grady, Keith O'Faoilean, Colin Shanahan. A Chairde, Look at the facebook link here www.facebook.com (courtesy of JDMorris Photography) which was filmed on 2nd February 2013 and ask yourself have three years really passed by with nothing done to extend the Great Southern Trail [GST] into County Kerry. Here we have Ireland's premier tourist destination which welcomes visitors from far and near through its international airport, car ferry and national road and rail network but cannot offer a céad míle fáilte to visitors who would like to arrive by pedalpower along a Greenway! The 40km of the GST in County Limerick is a designated section of the EuroVelo Route1 www.eurovelo.com/en/eurovelos/eurovelo-1 which runs parallel to the Atlantic Coast of Europe from Portugal to Norway. Our politicians will be knocking on doors very shortly and I think it is time to ask them if they ever intend to extend the GST to Listowel, Tralee and Fenit. Three years have passed since the blockade at the Limerick/Kerry border and three years have also passed since Kerry County Council received a delegation from the Tralee-Fenit/ GST activists. The minutes of that meeting are provided below for your information. By the way, it is now approaching thirty years since the GST was first proposed. Monies have been provided by the Government to fund Greenways along former railways which are now in private ownership but the public purse appears incapable of funding the completion of what would be Ireland's longest Greenway (almost 100km) and entirely along State owned land, owned by you and me.
Please ask the politicians for answers and
accountability. Great Southern Trail Silver Jubilee There was a very large and representative attendance at the silver jubilee celebrations of the GST on Saturday 7th November. Proceedings commenced at Newcastle West's Desmond Complex at 1pm. The new video "From a Railway to a Greenway" outlining the story of the GST was premiered with Kevin Daly getting much praise for his production skills. Refreshments were provided courtesy of Marguerites and the Desmond Complex are to be complimented for the excellent facilities. Following the video the gathering which included Patrick O Donovan T.D. and Councillors Seamus Browne, Francis Foley and Tom Neville was addressed by Liam O Mahony, Cathaoirleach GST; Michael Guerin, North Kerry GST Convenor; Josephine Cotter Coughlan, Director of Services Limerick City and County Council (LCCC) and Liam Galvin, Mayor LCCC. Mayor Galvin announced that LCCC were taking over responsibility for managing the GST and enhancing it. Kerry County Council are also setting aside €120,000 for planning and surveying the North Kerry portion of the GST which they are acquiring from CIÉ. Mayor Galvin then started the commemorative walk along the line to Ardagh where everybody enjoyed further refreshments at Neary's Bar where the lovely atmosphere facilitated pleasant singing session. Finally, Phelim's Coach returned everybody safely to Newcastle West. Silver Jubilee of the Great Southern Trail Greenway
On
Saturday November 7th from 1pm beidh fáilte mór romhat to the Desmond
Complex, Gortboy, Newcastle West (behind the Fire Station/Library) for an
afternoon of nostalgia, conversation and exercise to mark the Silver Jubilee
of the Great Southern Trail Greenway.
A personal observation by Liam O'Mahony: Saturday November 7th: Great Southern Trail Events
On Saturday 7th November from 1pm to 3pm there
will be an 'Open House' at the Desmond Complex, Gortboy, Newcastle West to
celebrate 25 years of achievement by the GST. A DVD will be launched which
provides a pictorial compilation of the many stages in the campaign which
resulted in the old railway being converted into a greenway in Co. Limerick
(with the effort still ongoing in Co. Kerry). 1001 Walks GST Feature Taken from 1001 Walks You Must Experience Before you Die, by Barry Stone (general editor), published by Cassell Illustrated (£20.00). see more
Press Release: New management structure for Co. Limerick's Great Southern
Trail Greenway NRA Fact Finding Mission On Friday 3rd July 2015 a team of six officials from the National Roads Authority [NRA], Galway Co.Co., Roscommon Co.Co and Westmeath County Council cycled the Abbeyfeale to Rathkeale section of the Great Southern Trail [GST] on a fact-finding mission. They are spearheading the development of the Galway-Dublin Greenway which is on EuroVelo Route2 from Moscow to Galway. The GST is on EuroVelo Route1 along the Western seaboard of Europe. They invited the GST to the opening of the Athlone-Mullingar section of Route2 which is expected in the Autumn.
Pictured at Rathkeale House Hotel after completing their cycle were: Jerry O'Sullivan, NRA; Annemarie Johnston, Roscommon Co.Co.; Paul Batty, Galway Co.Co. and Victor Cooney, Galway Co.Co. Missing from picture: Michael Kelly, Project Director and Elva Roe, Westmeath Co.Co. Long Walks on the Great Southern Trail Greenway Despite there not being an organised 'Midsummer Big Walk' along the GST this year it appears that a number of people undertook the 22 mile challenge along the old railway route www.southerntrail.net independently on Saturday 20th June. If any group of friends are minded to spend a Summer's day of leisure walking perhaps they could consider the Abbeyfeale-Rathkeale direction (easier gradients!). The route takes about a leisurely 8 hours. (Abbeyfeale to Templeglantine 2hrs; Templeglantine to Newcastle West 3 hrs; Newcastle West to Rathkeale 3 hrs with food being available all day at these locations). Return to Abbeyfeale from Rathkeale by Bus Éireann is possible until 10pm. Tar amach agus bain taitneamh as an GST! Great Southern Trail to become more cycle-friendly
The developed 40km section of the Great
Southern Trail (GST) greenway, between Rathkeale and Abbeyfeale, is being
made more cycle-friendly thanks to investment of almost €100,000 by the
Irish Government. These funds will be used by the local administration,
Limerick City & County Council, to provide bike stands, replace gated
crossings with cattle grids and to erect additional route signage. This
signage will incorporate the Irish language version of the EuroVelo logo and
the GST is the first greenway in Ireland to use it. Happy Christmas and every good wish for the New Year of 2015 from the Great Southern Trail. (Nollaig Shona agus gach dea-ghuí don Bhliain Nua 2015 ó Slí an Mhór-Dheiscirt)
The GST
www.southerntrail.net will host a walk/cycle along the Greenway on Sat.
27th December at 2.30pm commencing at the old Abbeyfeale Station. The round
trip for walkers is to the Kerry Border and back (4 miles total) while
cyclists will go to Tullig Wood, Templeglantine and back (10 miles total).
Refreshments will be provided afterwards at the adjacent Railway Bar,
Abbeyfeale. Correspondence 5th Nov 2014 from the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport
Dear Mr. O'Mahony Secretary General, Tom O'Mahony's lengthy reply to the PAC
To GST contacts for your information. Opening Broadford and Ashford Walking Trails 15th October 2014
Mr. Liam O Mahony, Immediately after the official opening there will be a walk in memory of Jerry Forde RIP Ashford who was the first chairperson of the Trails group. Registration for the walk will be from 12.30. There is a charge of €10.00 (children will be free) and all proceeds will go towards The Friends of St.Ita’s Hospital Newcastle West where Jerry was cared for in his final days. There will be a choice of two walks The Killagholehane Way (difficulty easy) and The Gleann Beag Loop.(difficulty moderately strenuous) Please also check our website www.walkbroadfordashford.com
Yours sincerely, Great Southern Trail Greenway Midsummer Walk & Cycle About 50 participants took on the fourth annual 22 mile mid-summer challenge of walking the Great Southern Trail Greenway from Abbeyfeale to Rathkeale in Co. Limerick. There was glorious weather on the day, Sat. 21st June. See photos An innovation this year was a cycle event with choices of three distances from Rathkeale, Newcastle West and Abbeyfeale to the railway summit at Barnagh on the N21. Here the Sheehan family kindly opened their Barnagh Gardens where the weary feet were able to relax and their owners enjoy refreshments including crepes and homemade icecream with live music and song to enhance the experience. Thanks to each and everyone who facilitated this wonderful stop along the route. Following further refreshments at Rathkeale House Hotel and presentation of Certificates to those who completed the walk there was a return coach to Abbeyfeale courtesy of Coach House Travel, Newcastle West. One man, Liam Downes completed a duathlon by firstly cycling from Rathkeale to Abbeyfeale and then walking back to Rathkeale. Liam did this as a charity fundraiser for the Martina Tierney Fund. Minister Alan Kelly indicates new developments in Listowel and Fenit railway Greenways This is a Radio Kerry link to Minister Alan Kelly's interview on Friday 20th June 2014 http://www.radiokerry.ie/news/cie-agrees-to-hand-over-lands-for-completion-of-kerry-greenways/ Family Fun Cycle on Saturday 21st June In addition to the 'Big Walk' along the GST Greenway from Abbeyfeale to Rathkeale on Saturday 21st June 2014 a cycling event has also been organised by Pedal Pursuits Bike Hire & West Limerick Resources and their partners. Details attached Cycle the Trail Flyer Cycle the Trail Registration Form Events Rules & Information. Agus beidh fáilte roimh gach éinne ar an lá.
The Great Southern Trail's Midsummer Big Walk: Sat 21st June 2014
On Saturday 21 June 2014, the fourth annual
36km Great Southern Trail Midsummer Big Walk will commence from Abbeyfeale
(Old Railway Station at 10.30 a.m.) and travel the 36km route of the old
railway to Rathkeale. Convenor GST North Kerry Report from Seminar: Clifden 6th March Maximising the potential of Walking & Cycling Trails held in Clifden Galway Members of the Great Southern Trail from Listowel , Templeglantine, Barnagh & Newcastle West, attended a very successful seminar on trail developments in Clifden Galway. This European Seminar had experts on trails from many countries and was hosted by Galway County Council. The seminar leader was Mr. Brian Barrett of Galway County Council whose father Tony was from Church Street Listowel. It was attended by a cross section of community groups including adjoining landowners of the proposed Connemara Trail. Galway County Council are committed to cover public liability along the route and have the support of adjoining landowners. The highlight of the seminar was the contributions from Mr. Padraig Philbin Mayo CC & Suzanne O Brien Mulranny Park Hotel, they gave amazing facts on how the Great Western Greenway Mayo has transformed the towns and villages in the area to very successful businesses and thereby creating many jobs in the area. Dr. Euokia Balamou, Larnaca, Cyprus gave an excellent presentation, one interesting point she made was that holiday makers are now going for all in holiday packages and not venturing outside the Hotel grounds, she said this is of little value to the greater rural country side. They have developed a very successful information system where aps can be downloaded along the trails in her area. They have also involved the schools in these projects. Arising from the many points coming from the workshops organised in the evening is that the success of any Trail is dependant on how the local community embrace and welcome walkers on the trails. That it more important as that tourist remembers best their interaction and experiences along the Trail than the scenic aspects of the trail. Like the Great Southern Trail Group, the Connemara Greenway Trail Group are hoping to hear shortly on the Grants for Trails from Minister Alan Kelly who is evaluating forty submissions from County Councils nationwide. Attached photos. URGENT make an immediate submission to the "Initial consultation" by Kerry Co. Co. re extension of Great Southern Trail to Listowel The GST welcomes the contents of the attached document from Kerry Co.Co.and urges all our friends to let Kerry County Council know that you support the plans for the 10km extension from the Limerick/Kerry border to Listowel. You have until Wed.19th Feb to send an email to roads@kerrycoco.ie [earlier if posting!] and you must include your name and address. Funding for this project has been applied for by Kerry Co. Co. to the Government who will be announcing the successful applicants later this month. The overall national fund is quite small and several other counties are clamouring for a slice of the cake. The GST case is strengthened if there is clearly demonstrable wide public support. So, please read the attached and add your support immediately. Ní neart go cur le chéile! As part of this current consultation exercise, general submissions in relation to this project are welcome and may be submitted in writing to: Administration Officer, Roads and Transportation, Kerry County Council, Áras an Chontae, Rathass, Tralee, Co. Kerry or by email to: roads@kerrycoco.ie and must be received by the 19th of February 2014 with ‘North Kerry Amenity Trail’ in the subject line
URGENTlease make an immediate submission to
the "Initial consultation" by Kerry Co. Co. re extension of Great Southern
Trail to Listowel Funding for this project has been applied for by Kerry Co. Co. to the Government who will be announcing the successful applicants later this month. The overall national fund is quite small and several other counties are clamouring for a slice of the cake. The GST case is strengthened if there is clearly demonstrable wide public support. So, please read the attached and add your support immediately. Ní neart go cur le chéile! As part of this current consultation exercise, general submissions in relation to this project are welcome and may be submitted in writing to: Administration Officer, Roads and Transportation, Kerry County Council, Áras an Chontae, Rathass, Tralee, Co. Kerry or by email to: roads@kerrycoco.ie and must be received by the 19th of February 2014 with ‘North Kerry Amenity Trail’ in the subject line The North Kerry Line Book available @ The book is available at €15 from Joe Cotter, 37 St.Brendan's Park, Tralee: 086 2611732/066 7124355; Mike O'Neill, Pier Gates, Fenit: 087 6269777/066 7136497: Jim Barrett, CIÉ Wagon Works, Roxboro Rd., Limerick: 086 8134061 and at Celtic Bookshop, Rutland St.,Limerick; Newcastle West Book Store, Market Place; Anne Lyons' Shop, The Square, Abbeyfeale; Woulfe's Bookshop, Listowel; Polymath Bookshop, Courthouse Lane, Tralee. The book can also be ordered by post at €20/US$30 (inc. postage worldwide) from:
Liam O'Mahony, with Euro/ Dollar cheques /postal orders being made payable to "Great Southern Trail" or at £18stg. from
Alan O'Rourke, if you are paying in sterling ( with sterling cheques/ postal orders being made payable to Alan O'Rourke). OR BY ELECTRONIC TRANSFER OF £18 OR €20 OR US$30 TO GREAT SOUTHERN TRAIL BANK ACCOUNT, IRELAND- BIC: IPBSIE2D IBAN: IE97IPBS99072775332761 (please note the digit '1' only appears once..at the very end of the IBAN and not at all in the BIC) ADDING A REFERENCE 'TAG' INDICATING WHO THE SENDER IS. PLEASE EMAIL lomahony@hotmail.com WHEN THE TRANSACTION IS DONE AND THE BOOK WILL THEN BE POSTED. Seán O'Rourke's RTE Radio1 programme The GST also featured for over 15 minutes on Seán O'Rourke's RTE Radio1 programme on Wed. 27th Nov.2013; the links to which are below.
RTE player: An independent review of the book is attached Launch of new book on the history of the Limerick-Tralee/Fenit & Foynes Railway
Dr. O'Rourke's book is the result of several years research and contains a detailed history of the four railway companies who constructed these 90 miles or so of railway in West Limerick and North Kerry during the latter half of the 19th century. It also provides a fine description of the lie of the land and of the communities which were linked by the lines and their 22 stations. Front cover photo of goods train at Lixnaw, Co. Kerry 1970's by kind permission of Jonathan Allen) In tandem with the launch Ms. Maria Leahy, a student of Oral History at the University of Limerick is commencing the recording of of the lives and times of those who lived along the line and of those families who grew up with the railway in their blood. Maria can be contacted directly at 086 4033707 or minzer@live.ie she will also be available at Listowel from 5.30pm and Newcastle West from 7pm on the launch evenings. The book, printed locally by Fitzsimons Printers, Shanagolden, Co. Limerick is published by the Great Southern Trail which is dedicated to preserving the heritage of these lines and the conversion to a 'Greenway' of the Ballingrane (near Rathkeale) to Tralee/Fenit route. As the book says: "the North Kerry had a reputation as a friendly line". This was thanks to the railway community who worked on it. For the railway families and for the faithful supporters of the Great Southern Trail over the past twenty years signed copies of the book will be available at the launches at the very special price of €10. The post-launch price will be €15 which is still exceptional value for a scholarly work of 275 pages including over 30 maps/diagrams and over 80 photographs (many previously unpublished. For all who were associated with the working railway, all who now walk/cycle the developed sections and all whose interest is local history this book should be essential reading. BOOK LAUNCHES, Nov 24th and 26th 2013 CUIREADH-INVITATION
The launches of a new railway interest book
"The North Kerry Line" (Limerick to Tralee and the Foynes and Fenit
branches) will take place at two events as follows: PRELIMINARY NOTICE BOOK LAUNCH “ THE NORTH KERRY LINE” The definitive History of the “North Kerry line” by Railway Historian Dr Alan O Rourke (see profile attached), Book Launch is fixed for SUNDAY 24TH NOVEMBER AT 7 PM. It will be launched by Jimmy Deenihan TD Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht in the Lartigue Museum Listowel. There will also be a book Launch by Éamon Ó Cuív T.D. in Newcastle West Library, Gortboy at 8pm on Tuesday 26th. Many years of research has gone into this book, it is published under the auspices of the Great Southern Trail. It is also hoped to bring together North Kerry Line associated families on the evening to make a start at recording the staff that worked along the line between Limerick and Tralee as well as on the Foynes & Fenit branches and also to take photographs of surviving NK line staff & families. Please inform any families you know that were associated with the North Kerry Line to participate in the launch. Regards, Kerry County Manager Tom Curran to meet with Listowel delegation after door-to-door survey confirms massive Residents support for Trail
On Saturday 19th of September, teams of volunteers including residents, walker groups, parents of young families and public representatives from all political parties surveyed each house along the 9km route from Listowel to the Limerick border. 80% of of the 150 households surveyed expressed their unqualified support for the trail, and a further 10% were supportive provided their privacy concerns were addressed. A further 10% of residents / landowners (a total of 15) chose not to express an opinion to the survey team but said that they wished to speak directly with either the owner of the line CIE or Kerry County Council so that their concerns could be addressed also. At the public meeting held in the Listowel Family Resource centre at 6pm on Saturday 19th of October, Minister Jimmy Deenihan, Arthur Spring TD and Brendan Griffin TD spoke strongly in support of the trail, as did Mayor of Listowel Jimmy Moloney, Cllr Maria Gorman and Cllr Tim O'Leary. Cllr O'Leary, who was a guard in Listowel for over 30 years explained that he had been in contact with an Garda Siochana in both Newcastle West and Westport who confirmed that the Trails there do not attract anti-social behaviour, crime or trespass.
Given that the North Kerry Abandoned Rail Line Action Group (NKARLAG) have written to CIE to confirm that they will not be proceeding with an Adverse Possession Claim (Contact Niall Grogan of CIE Property Management 01 7032921), the onus is now firmly on the 5 Listowel local area councillors: John Brassil (FF), Pat Leahy (Lab), Robert Beasley (SF), Tim Buckley (FG) & Liam Purtill (FG) to speak with the 15 remaining landowners to address their concerns. This is a democratic imperative given the overwhelming support of the people of Listowel (2000 signatures collected) plus of residents along the route of the proposed 9km Great Southern Trail extension. None of the 5 Local Area Councillors attended the public meeting or door-to-door survey. Some of the 5 councillors have admitted to have been subject to "intense personal lobbying" by the NKARLAG so it is imperative that these councillors use this communication channel with the NKARLAG to find out what their concerns are so that they can be addressed.
For Queries contact: Jimmy Moloney Mayor of Listowel 087 9026066 Cllr Tim O'Leary 0860647923 Michael Guerin, Great Southern Trail Convenor North Kerry 0871221234 Gearoid Pierse, Great Southern Trail Activist North Kerry 0867228470 More details on www.facebook.com/Listowelrailwalk Contact details for Kerry County Councillors including the 5 Listowel Area Councillors: John Brassil (FF), Pat Leahy (Lab), Robert Beasley (SF), Tim Buckley (FG) & Liam Purtill (FG) : http://www.kerrycoco.ie/en/allservices/corporateservices/yourcouncil/ Review of the local area plan for Newcastle West 2014 - 2020 Dear Mr Mac Domhnaill, Yours sincerely, Listowel Public Meeting 19/10/13 A public meeting on the proposed extension of the Great Southern Trail from the Kerry/Limerick border into Listowel will take place in the Listowel Family Resource Centre, John B. Keane Road, Listowel at 6pm on Saturday 19th of October. The focus of the meeting will be to share information and hear views from supporters, public representatives and adjoining landowners who have concerns. The North Kerry Abandoned Rail Line Action Group (NKARLAG) which opposes the development of the disused railway line have been contacted by their representative John Hannan of Ballybunion and it is hoped by the organisers that they will attend so that the concerns can be listened to and addressed. All TD's & Councillors in North Kerry are invited to attend. The topics to be discussed and presented to the audience are: 1. Photos from the 39 km stretch of the Great Southern Trail that has already been developed into a Greenway in County Limerick. It goes from Rathkeale via Newcastle West and Abbeyfeale to the Kerry/Limerick border near Kilmorna. The photos show the bridges, fences and gates that have been built to ensure privacy and access for local landowners. 2. Detailed maps of the proposed 9km extension from the Kerry/Limerick Border at Kilmorna to Listowel. 3. The legal position regarding CIE ownership, the Fibre optic cable running along the line, "Adverse Possession" (Squatters Rights), Rights of way and privacy issues. 4. The role of Limerick County Council in the development in Co. Limerick, and the current position regarding funding, Kerry County Council and North East Kerry Development in relation to the proposed extension of the walkway into Listowel. Please find attached some sample maps and photos - do feel free to contact me if you would like any more. Also feel free to take a screengrab of any of the photos on our website www.facebook.com/Listowelrailwalk which has almost 1500 followers and growing by over 100 followers a week. In advance of the meeting, volunteers are asked to assemble at 1pm at the Listowel Family Resource Centre on Saturday 19th of October to conduct a door-to-door survey of local residents attitudes to the proposed trail. Teams of volunteers will call to houses along the 9km route from Listowel to the Kerry / Limerick border. For any queries please feel free to call Gearoid Pierse on (086) 7228470, or Michael Guerin (GST North Kerry Convenor). Erected Semaphore Railway Signal 2013 On Saturday 28th September 2013 the recently erected semaphore railway signal on the Great Southern Trail at the approach to Newcastle West was officially unveiled. The signal was donated by Iarnród Éireann, transported by Eamonn Barrett of Barnagh and erected by a voluntary 'meitheal' of Jim Barrett [Garryduff], Pa Kelly [Barnagh], Denis McAuliffe [Templeglantine] and Mike MacDomhnaill [An Caisleán Nua]. These gentlemen had also prepared an additional pleasant surprise for long-serving GST Cathaoirleach, Liam O'Mahony, by commissioning a plaque dedicated to him and attached to the signal. These signals are now very uncommon as most railway signals are now of the 'traffic light' type. See Photos Old Semaphore Signal From: pedalpursuitsbikehire@gmail.com We finally took possession of an old semaphore signal which was kindly donated by Irish Rail and who also refurbished it to its former glory. In the coming week we will be carrying out preparation works and will erect the signal where it would have originally stood, as an 'Outer Home Signal', 440yards or quarter mile from the Newcastle West station. This event is taking place during the 50th anniversary year of the cessation of daily passenger trains from Limerick to Tralee. We invite you to attend the official unveiling of the signal on the 28th September 2013 @2pm. Meet at Great Southern Trail entrance [opposite Gaelscoil on the R521 Newcastle West, Co. Limerick] Jim Barrett www.pedalpursuitsbikehire.com TO ALL KERRY CONTACTS: THE ATTACHED DOCUMENT IS A CALL FROM THE DEPT. OF TRANSPORT TO LOCAL AUTHORITIES TO SUBMIT GREENWAY PROJECTS FOR THE 2014-2016 PERIOD. THE GREAT SOUTHERN TRAIL ROUTE MEETS ALL THE CRITERIA SET OUT IN THE DOCUMENT. PLEASE LET YOUR VIEWS BE KNOWN TO YOUR LOCAL PUBLIC REPRESENTATIVE AND ENCOURAGE KERRY COUNTY COUNCIL. TO PLAN FOR THE KERRY GST SECTION WHICH , AS CIE KEEPS REITERATING, IS STATE LAND. LE MEAS 3 DAY AUTUMN BREAK TO WICKLOW A three day short break is being organised to the beautiful County of Wicklow with visits to Dublin and Waterford cities also being included. The tour begins on Monday Sept. 30th from Limerick on the 8.55a.m. train to Dublin. Following a five hour stop-over to explore our capital city and another train journey to Arklow the holiday base will be reached after 6p.m.. This is the oldest hotel in Ireland at Woodenbridge www.woodenbridgehotel.com where two nights dinner, bed and breakfast will be provided in the Lodge. There is a walkway from the hotel to the famous beauty spot of the 'Meeting of the Waters' in the Vale of Avoca. On Tuesday Oct.1st there will be a full day coach tour of Co. Wicklow www.visitwicklow.ie including Avondale (home of C.S.Parnell), Glendalough and a walk along the old railway line at Tinahely which has been developed by the local community. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LmbrkOlXtQU On Wednesday Oct.2nd there will be a 1 hour coach transfer to Carlow followed by a direct train to Waterford. There will be four hours to browse our most ancient city and its many visitor attractions www.waterfordtreasures.com before departing on the 4.25p.m. train to Limerick (arrival 6.40p.m.) where the tour ends. The cost is €175 per person sharing (€215 for single room) and includes two nights dinner, bed and breakfast, all train and coach trips and admissions to attractions in Co. Wicklow. The cost would be much higher were it not for the generosity of Iarnród Éireann who awarded the Great Southern Trail (organisers of this tour) one of their 'The Journey Is On Us' free railway trips which they offer to several community groups each year. The Dublin-Arklow railway is one of Ireland's most scenic lines with long stretches hugging the Irish Sea before it enters the woodlands as it passes through the Vale of Avoca. The Waterford-Limerick line also has a fair share of scenery as it travels the Suir Valley passing Sliabh na mBan, the Comeragh, Knockmealdown and Galtee mountains. Please contact Liam O'Mahony, 9 Bishop St., Newcastle West, Co. Limerick 087 6471956, lomahony@hotmail.com if interested. Numbers must be finalised by Monday 9th Sept., and a non-refundable deposit of €40 paid by then, to ensure accommodation and seat reservations on the trains. Cheques should be made payable to "Great Southern Trail". Complimentary Visit to the West of Ireland. Great Southern Trail September visit to Westport Greenway. The Great Southern Trail has been granted a complimentary group return rail journey by Iarnród Éireann and proposes to avail of their generosity by making a visit to the West of Ireland. At Athenry we change trains for Athlone where there will be a break from noon till 2 p.m. before boarding the Westport train. On arrival in Westport at 4p.m. we check-in to our hotel for two nights B+B and 2 Dinners. On Tuesday we will be transferred by coach to Achill to begin our, mostly downhill, cycle along the Great Western Greenway www.greenway.ie Anyone unable to complete the entire 25 miles will be picked up by mini-bus along the way. Wednesday morning will be free to explore Westport before departing from the local station on the 1.10 p.m. train via Roscommon, Athlone and Portarlington (change trains) arriving in Limerick at 5.40 p.m. where the tour ends. The cost of €150 covers everything outlined above on the basis of sharing a room. A single room (limited amount) will increase the cost to €190. Please let me know before Monday 12th August if you are interested. Radio Kerry's Frank Lewis programme Saturday 27th July The Great Southern Trail [GST] will be the subject of Radio Kerry's Frank Lewis programme this Saturday 27th July from 9a.m. to 11a.m. http://www.radiokerry.ie/programme/saturday-supplement/ First Hotel to offer Hotel Guests Cycling Holidays on the new Great Southern Trail. The Dunraven Arms Hotel in Adare is delighted to be the first Hotel to offer Hotel Guests the unique opportunity to cycle the Great Southern Trail (GST) The Great Southern Trail is a 96km stretch of countryside in West Limerick /North Kerry and was once the route taken by the old Limerick/Tralee railway line.
Speaking at the launch Liam O'Mahony Chairman of the GST said " I would like to congratulate Louis Murphy and the Hotel staff for their innovative package. It is wonderful the the Dunraven Arms Hotel realises the potential of the GST as a means of attracting tourism to the area.
We have 40km of the GST open for walkers and cyclists" Louis Murphy proprietor of the Hotel is delighted to have this latest attraction to offer to the Guests. "It's a wonderful opportunity for our Guests as Bikes, equipment and transfers are all included in the package. We are delighted to support the GST"
Pictured in the above photo taken in the Garden of the Dunraven Arms Hotel are Louis Murphy, Proprietor, Dunraven Arms Hotel, Hotel Guests and Staff Celebrate the 'GATHERING' on the Great Southern Trail's Midsummer Big Walk: Sat 22nd June
The Great Southern Trail (GST) is a unique stretch of countryside in West Limerick/North Kerry. It is the route taken by the Limerick-Tralee/Fenit railway line, which opened in 1867/1880 and closed in 1975/1978. This railway transported vast quantities of freight, livestock and passengers. Among those passengers were many who purchased one-way tickets to the emigrant ports from where they continued by sea to make new lives for themselves, most likely in Britain or the U.S.A.
Register at greatsoutherntrail@gmail.com by June 15th. A registration fee of €10 is payable in advance to Great Southern Trail, 9 Bishop Street, Newcastle West. An optional evening dinner will be available and will be complimentary to all pre-registered overseas visitors. Furthermore the first ten overseas registrations will have the added benefit of free bicycle hire on the day!
Gathering Details Listowel Town Council support the GST development Liam O'Mahony, Cathaoirleach of the Great Southern Trail, has welcomed the decision by Listowel Town Council on last Monday night to support the development of the GST from the Limerick/Kerry Border to Listowel. Taken in tandem with the 1,700 signatures gathered locally in recent weeks by the Listowel Strollers Group as well as the huge turnout on Sunday for the GST Listowel-Kilmorna road walk it is clear that there is huge public demand in North Kerry for the conversion of the old railway into a Greenway. The GST looks forward to the Listowel Area County Councillors and Kerry County Council now demonstrating similar support for the project and to adjoining landowners, who were opposed to the GST, availing of the long-standing offer of independent mediation to address their concerns. The upcoming opportunity to avail of Smarter Travel/ National Cycle Network funding must also be grasped. Mr. O'Mahony thanked all the GST supporters in North Kerry for their commitment and dedication to the project. CLICK ON LINK BELOW FOR FURTHER INFO. https://www.facebook.com/ListowelRailwalk 10 km Walk/Cycle/Run Listowel
Braving cold, wet conditions over 200 men, women and children participated in the 10 km Walk from the Lartigue Museum Listowel to Shanacool Cross on the Kilmorna Road. Before starting off on the walk Mr Arthur Spring TD addressed the participants giving his support to the walk also by Town Councillors Jimmy Moloney, Tim O Leary, Maria Gorman and Jacqueline Barrett Madigan. Apologies were received from the following due to prior commitments :- Minister Jimmy Deenihan, Minister of State Alan Kelly,Councillor Liam Purtill KCC and Town Councillors Tom Walsh, Tom Barry. The group rested at Shanacool and walked a section of the CIE Line briefed by Liam O Mahony, Chairman of the GST on the practicalities of converting the route to a safe walk and cycle route to Listowel. Liam also briefed the group as to the work carried out on the Limerick section to allay any security or privacy concerns of adjoining landowners. The major regional financial boost of a similar route in Mayo, the Great Western Greenway, was also outlined. He said that the hope of making progress in the coming weeks could best be realised by meetings between the adjoining landowners and the indepentely appointed mediator. Gearoid Pierse thank all the participants, the Listowel Crusaders & Strollers groups, runners, cyclists and walkers; along with the local Supermarkets who sponsored water for the walk. He also thanked the Gardaí for their assistance on the day. The Listowel Door to Door Petition sheets were collected giving a count of 1450 [with another 250 yet to be handed up]. The grand total of 1700 signatures was collected over three weeks by Listowel GST supporters knocking at doors in Listowel Town. Michael Guerin Listowel Walk Sunday 12th May The Kilmorna - Listowel road walk on Sunday 12th May at 3pm and will commence at Listowel's John B. Keane Road outside the Old Station (now the Lartigue Museum). The Great Southern Trail [GST] requests all its many supporters and friends to assemble on Sun.12th May at 3pm outside the Lartigue Museum, J.B.Keane Rd., Listowel and participate in the 10Km walk/run/cycle (details attached). The primary purpose of this event is to:
Three months have passed since we were blockaded at the Kerry Border. During that time no word of condemnation of that action, which took place on land owned by the State (i.e. ourselves!), has been heard from anyone in authority including our elected representatives. May 12th is your opportunity to let your voice be heard. Please wear a visibility vest as our event has to take place along public roads thanks to official inertia. Bí linn ar an lá! The recent press release (copied below) spells out the facts. Sincerely, Subject: PRESS STATEMENT RE. DEVELOPMENT OF GREENWAY IN NORTH KERRY FROM LIAM O MAHONY, CATHAOIRLEACH GREAT SOUTHERN TRAIL (GST) 23RD APRIL 2013 The GST had hoped that 2013 would herald the progression of the Greenway along the Co. Kerry portion of the old Limerick-Tralee / Fenit railway. 2012 had ended with Limerick Co. Co. (LCC) completing a 3km extension, under the Smarter Travel programme, which advanced the GST westwards from Abbeyfeale to the Kerry border. The Kerry section of the route had already been identified as being integral to the Pan-European (EuroVelo http://www.eurovelo.org/routes/) network as well as the National Cycle Network. It had the approval of numerous European, National and Regional agencies along with the support of Transport Minister, Leo Varadkar. However, in January 2013, a group calling itself 'North Kerry Abandoned Railway Line Action Group' (NKARLAG) sent solicitor's letters to all the stakeholders in the GST. These claimed that the NKARLAG were now the owners of 50km of the railway in Co. Kerry. A few days later they confronted CIÉ / GST personnel who were carrying out an inspection of the route, challenging them as to their purpose on the track. A further escalation happened on February 2nd when barriers with 'Private Property' signage, reinforced by a large group of protesters prevented a GST walk from entering Co. Kerry. At this stage an experienced mediator was made available with the assistance of the Department of the Environment to discuss any grievances or concerns that the NKARLAG had. This offer was repeatedly refused on the pretext that the NKARLAG were preparing for a meeting with CIÉ in late March. At that March meeting the NKARLAG failed to make any effort to substantiate their ownership claim. Instead they chose to raise issues of security and other practical concerns were a Greenway to be developed. These were the very issues that they refused to discuss with the mediator. During the meeting CIÉ clearly asserted its ownership of the line. Therefore the GST finds it incomprehensible that Kerry Co. Co. (KCC) by its current inaction is apparently dismissing CIÉ's repeated statements of ownership while giving credence to the unsubstantiated claims of the NKARLAG. This is the only conclusion that can be drawn from KCC's refusal to apply this month for State funding to plan / design a cycleway along the route. This inertia by KCC could lose millions of euro in the construction of the Greenway, not to mention the subsequent benefits to be gained by locals and visiting tourists. As evidenced in Co. Mayo http://www.greenway.ie/Greenway-01.html the presence of a rail-trail provides a huge boost to the economy of the towns and villages en route. (It is also worth noting that LCC has applied, this month, for the funding to plan and design a Limerick City - Rathkeale cycle route to link up with the GST.) KCC also seems indifferent to the fact that this route, worth at least €1m in land value, carries a fibre-optic cable which is part of our national communications infrastructure. One could have reasonably expected the Council to be protective of such a valuable corridor. Had KCC used the 'Part 8' planning process, which is available to all local authorities, the citizenry of North Kerry would have been able to express their opinion on the merits of the Greenway. The objectors would also have had the opportunity to make their concerns known. With all the pros and cons on the table, the councillors would be in a position to make an informed decision on the project in the best interests of their electorate. Throughout the past 3 months the NKARLAG has consistently declined to engage with the media in this matter or to explain why a project which has been successfully delivered over a 40km length in Co. Limerick should be so undesirable in the neighbouring county. In Co. Limerick every reasonable accommodation has been provided to adjoining landowners and residents to ensure that their privacy and security is maintained. In the common good, the GST now calls on the NKARLAG to engage with the appointed mediator and to resolve their concerns through this forum.
Bank Holiday Walk 6th May In Co. Limerick on Bank Holiday Monday 6th May at 3pm an 8 mile loop walk will set out from the Rooskagh Communications Mast (on the hills to the North-West of Newcastle West; close to L1329..see map on http://www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/197955314) This is a very scenic route with panoramic views of the Golden Vale and involves minor public roads as well as the old railway. Please wear visibility vests. Beidh fáilte romhat. Be advised that there are fairly steep roads to be walked! Irish Times 27/04/2013 Come west along the railroad by Frank McDonald Irish Times 27/04/2013 Photographic Survey This photographic survey of the route starts at Tralee and works its way towards Limerick. It is still a work in progress and more new photos will be added over time. Some photos appear in previous galleries but they are relevant to the North Kerry Line. http://thewandererphotos.smugmug.com/ForgottenRailways May 6th Loop Walk Bank Holiday Monday 6th May. at 3p.m. LoopWalk 10km using GST/minor roads in the Rooskagh-Glenagown. Full details later... PLEASE SPREAD THE NEWS OF THE GST's 'GATHERING EVENT' WHICH IS OUR 36km [22 miles] MIDSUMMER WALK http://www.thegatheringireland.com Above is the link to the GST Gathering event on 22nd June. Please view it, mark it in your diary, and then circulate it to any family or friends who are Overseas and may consider being with us for this special commemoration of the route along which their parents or grandparents may have taken when emigrating. Bank Holiday Weekend on the Great Southern Trail: On the previous day, Lá Fhéile Pádraig, a fun-cycle by GST supporters will set out on a 30km (19miles) circular road trip at 10a.m. from Listowel Square via Duagh, Abbeyfeale, Great Southern Trail (for 3Km only) and Kilmorna. All are welcome but helmet and visibility vest are required. See www.facebook.com/listowelrailwalk for further details. Kerryseye Newspaper 28/02/2013 On Saturday, a new section three-kilometre walk of the Great Southern Trail in Abbeyfeale was officially launched by Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport Leo Varadkar. Read More.. Fun 30km cycle from Listowel to Abbeyfeale St. Patrick’s Day (Sunday 17th March 2013) On the Return Journey from Abbeyfeale to Listowel we will cycle on the traffic-free Great Southern Trail as far as the Kerry border at Kilmorna, where we will rejoin the main road and cycle back to Listowel via Kilmorna, Bolton’s Cross & Cahirdown. Due back in Listowel at 12 noon, in time for the parade, which starts at 12:30pm this year. Please wear a cycling helmet (obligatory) and high-viz clothes if possible. 10am: Start in Listowel (Sports Complex Car Park)
More Details Gearóid Pierse at (086) 7228470 email: gmpierse@gmail.com or at this link: http://www.facebook.com/ListowelRailwalk#!/events/475542729178572/
Kilmorna barricade stops GST commemorative walk on 2/2/13 On Saturday February 2nd 2013 about 150 Great Southern Trail supporters gathered at the old Abbeyfeale, Co. Limerick Railway Station to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the last regular passenger train along the line between Limerick and Tralee. They intended walking the most recently developed section of the Greenway in Co. Limerick and a short portion of the yet to be developed part of the old line situated in Co. Kerry. However, the walk was interrupted by a barricade at the Limerick/Kerry border at the other side of which was gathered a group of over thirty protesters in support of claimants to the CIÉ railway land in Co. Kerry. A three hour stand-off ensued with the result that the walkers failed to complete their intended route. See photos As a result very serious issues now need to be addressed without delay:
ABBEYFEALE TO DUAGH RAILWAY ANNIVERSARY WALK Sat. 2nd Feb. On a frosty evening fifty years ago the last regular passenger train wended its way through West Limerick and North Kerry as it made its final journey from Limerick to Tralee. All along the route people came out to bid farewell. It was Saturday 2nd February 1963. Coincidentally in 2013 the 2nd of February also falls on a Saturday and to commemorate the last train a walk will set out from Abbeyfeale Station along the Great Southern Trail(GST) at 2.15pm this Saturday. The route to Duagh Village is approximately four miles long and as portion of the route is on the public road all participants are advised to wear visibility vests. Refreshments will be provided at Jim's Bar, Duagh and return transport to Abbeyfeale will be provided. Those travelling from the Tralee/Listowel direction may consider the 1pm CIÉ bus from Tralee(1.30pm from Listowel) to Abbeyfeale; there is a return CIÉ service to Listowel/Tralee at 4.45pm directly from Duagh. Beidh fáilte romhat ar an lá! With Lá Fhéile Bríde welcoming springtime on the previous day it's a good opportunity to take advantage of the lengthening days by getting out and about. The old railway from Abbeyfeale to the Co. Kerry border is now a magnificent cycleway thanks to the recent works by Limerick Co Co and their contractors and funded by the Department of Transport. A preliminary inspection of the first 2km in Co. Kerry by GST and CIÉ personnel took place last week. Due to the difficult overgrown terrain which was encountered this portion of Saturday's route is only suited to those with wellingtons, gloves, eye protection and working clothing. All other participants should exit onto the public road at the County Boundary. CHESHIRE HOME SPONSORED WALK 2013 THE ANNUAL SPONSORED WALK TO AID THE CHESHIRE HOME AT RATHFREDAGH [NEAR NEWCASTLE WEST, CO. LIMERICK] IS UTILISING THE GREAT SOUTHERN TRAIL BARNAGH TO NEWCASTLE WEST SECTION AGAIN THIS YEAR. IT COMMENCES AT 10am ON SUNDAY JANUARY 27th FROM THE N21 LAYBY AT BARNAGH ( 4miles west of Newcastle) AND THE WALK IS 9 MILES LONG, THE LAST 4 MILES ARE ON PUBLIC ROADS SO PLEASE WEAR A VISIBILITY VEST. RETURN COACH TRANSPORT WILL BE PROVIDED. THERE IS ALSO A SHORTER ALTERNATIVE OF MEETING AT THE COURTENAY LODGE HOTEL [N21], NEWCASTLE WEST AT 11a.m. FOR THE 4 MILE PUBLIC ROAD SECTION. FOR SPONSORSHIP CARDS IF YOU INTEND TAKING PART.
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Contact: Secretary, Great Southern Trail, Gortbui,
Newcastle West, Co. Limerick, Ireland. Email Us | |||
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A
new book by railway historian Dr. Alan O'Rourke titled 'The North Kerry
Line' whose subject is the Limerick to Tralee railway along with the branch
lines to Fenit and Foynes will be launched in the Lartigue Railway Museum,
Listowel, Co. Kerry by Minister Jimmy Deenihan on Sunday 24th Nov. at 7pm
and at the Library, Gortboy, Newcastle West, Co. Limerick on Tuesday 26th
Nov. at 8pm by Éamon Ó Cuív T.D. The public are cordially invited to attend
on both nights. Beidh fáilte roimh gach éinne. 
Kerry
County Council County Manager Tom Curran has agreed to meet a delegation of
Public Representatives and residents after this weekend's door-to-door
survey and public meeting confirmed the massive public support for the 9km
extension of the Great Southern Trail from the Limerick border at Kilmorna
into Listowel. The cross-party delegation is to be lead by Jimmy Moloney
(FF) Mayor of Listowel. 
The
Chairman of CIE has confirmed CIE's Ownership and support of the trail in a
response to Brendan Griffin TD who is on the Oireachtas Transport Committee
Furthermore,
Kerry County Council is being urged to apply for the approximately €400,000
in funding that would be required to complete the 9km trail in the upcoming
November round of Greenway funding. The November round of funding is €6.5m
in total but there will be intense competition from other Greenway projects
around the country. 
On Saturday 22 June 2013, the third annual 36km Great Southern Trail Midsummer Big Walk will commence from Abbeyfeale (Old Railway Station at 10.30 a.m.) and travel the 36km route of the old railway to Rathkeale. This provides an opportunity for descendants of the emigrants to walk the route taken by them when heading for the various ports along the south and east coasts of Ireland up to the 1960's when the passenger trains ceased. Devon Road Station and Tullig Wood are passed en route with the ascent continuing on to Barnagh (the highest point on the trail) which is 13km from Abbeyfeale.
We suggest that a packed lunch be brought and enjoyed at Barnagh with its panoramic views and an old railway tunnel to explore if you wish. Then it's all downhill for 10km to the busy town of Newcastle West where a break for afternoon tea might be taken. The final 13km to Rathkeale brings us past Ardagh where the famous Chalice was found in 1868. In Rathkeale certificates will be presented to those who completed the entire 36km (22 miles) on foot. 
