Hopes to return Caragh Lake to past glories

MEMBERS of the Caragh Lake Conservation Group (CLCG) have said a number of works in the vicinity of the lake could make it easier to utilise the lake’s potential.

The group spoke at a meeting of the members of the South and West Kerry Municipal District on Friday as part of a deputation requested by Sinn Féin Councillor Damian Quigg.

The CLCG’s Treasurer Nuala Corkery and Chairperson Mike Hassett described the lake as ‘a wonderful amenity’ at Friday’s meeting in Killorglin, but stated that more use could be made of it with a few changes.

“We have two right of way’s leading to the lake,” Ms Corkery explained. “Vehicles can only travel on one of these routes, but that particular path has deteriorated over the years for various reasons. We’d like to see that path repaired so people can drive down to the lake easily. That’s a priority for us.

“We also had a pier at the lake, and we’d hope it can be restored, and we think there needs to be improved signage nearby so everyone is aware of this brilliant amenity and how they can get to it,” she added. “Tourists often ask the locals for directions to the lake, and more might not even be aware that it’s there at all.”

If these suggestions are put into practice, Ms Corkery feels the lake could be injected with a new lease of life, and be able to return to past glories:

“This is all about making the most of Caragh Lake, by making it accessible to both the community and people visiting the area,” she said.

“Going back the years the lake played host to events like regattas and angling competitions. If we had works done on the right of way, and have the pier, it would make the lake more accessible to local clubs and groups, and we might even see the return of events like that.”

The group said it is pleased with the response it received from councillors on Friday, and is hopeful that Kerry County Council will look at their suggestions in a favourable light.