Greenway to Cahersiveen would far surpass the Achill to Westport Greenway
SIR,
Thirty or more years ago I proposed that the Steam Train would be re-introduced to the Killorglin to Cahersiveen Railway Line. I believe that John O’Donoghue seconded my proposal. I stated then that it had the potential to be the greatest coastal attraction in Western Europe.
I made that proposal because I had, as a very young child, travelled on the train and was in part enchanted and in part terrified by what was for me an epic journey, through the tunnels and over the great viaduct.
By the beginning of this century the prospect of resurrecting the actual train had disappeared and thoughts turned to developing a walkway cum cycleway. A glorious prospect, I felt for an economically challenged peninsula.
In order to get perspective on such a development I went with some Killarney people to cycle the Achill to Westport Greenway. The two towns/villages along that route are Mulranny and Newport, both very welcome stopping places for my aging limbs.
We visited the former Great Southern Hotel in Mulranny and spoke with the Manager who informed us that the Greenway had brought a wonderful vibrancy to the hotel and the town.
From there we pedalled for Newport. Thirteen of us entered the Gráinne Mhaol pub cum restaurant. Twelve sea-food chowders and a bowl of soup for me were ordered. Not a bad order for two o’clock in the afternoon. And we were just one of many, many groups that entered that location on that lovely day.
The Achill to Westport Greenway outing was very enjoyable but I will say, without fear or favour, that the proposed one to Cahersiveen/Reenard would far surpass it scenically and would attract even more visitors.
At a conservative estimate I suggest that the Iveragh Greenway would bring at least €15,000,000 into the area annually. That would result in a minimum of 200 sustainable jobs.
Imagine the rejoicing if a Minister announced a factory employing that number of people for the beleaguered town of Cahersiveen.
There is a time in the affairs of people, families and communities when the bigger picture needs to be accepted as presenting the best and possibly the only way forward. Please, before thieving time takes its toll, afford me my dream of travelling once more on that iconic line.
Sincerely,
Michael Gleeson [Cllr], Clasheen,
Killarney