Finucane calls for Kerry presence at major UK airport

THERE have been calls for a more permanent ‘Kerry presence’ at Manchester Airport once the new service is up and running next month.

Cllr Jim Finucane (Fine Gael) tabled a motion at Monday’s meeting of Kerry County Council calling for KCC, in conjunction with Kerry Airport, to initiate a marketing campaign for the new route, which is generating huge public interest among those looking to discover Manchester and the north of England.

“Some consideration needs to be given due to the size of Manchester Airport and the numbers of people passing through it every day,” said Cllr Finucane. “Kerry tourism should have a presence there as it’s hugely significant and will be even more so if we can have an impact on Manchester Airport in terms of promoting Kerry,” he added.

The motion was seconded by Independent Cllr Niall O’Callaghan, who described it as a great service and joked it would be ‘handy’ for games once Leeds United are promoted from the Championship this season.

Fianna Fáil Cllr Fionnán Fitzgerald said it will greatly benefit the diaspora.

“The Kerry diaspora in Manchester is huge and should be tapped into. If we all put our shoulders to the wheel, this will open up,” he said.

Cllr Jackie Healy-Rae said the new route is ‘vital’ for attracting tourists and new businesses. Cllr Brendán Fitzgerald asked KCC to write to Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary requesting a service to France and Italy.

Fianna Fáil Cllr Mikey Sheehy outlined that the new route will open up the entire north of England to Kerry: “I would urge KCC to do all they can with this in mind,” he said.

Photo Domnick Walsh Mayor of Tralee Jim Finucane with Marija Rama and Kamile Karavajevaite from Moyderwell NS at the opening of the new playground in Tralee Town Park in January.