BUSINESS and tourism leaders in Killarney have told of the huge sense of shock and disappointment they felt when it emerged that Stobart Air is to cease operations, bringing an immediate halt to the daily Kerry-Dublin service.
Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce assured management, staff and customers of Kerry Airport that it will do everything possible to support them in their quest to restore the vital link.
Chamber President, Niall Kelleher, said it has come as a devastating blow to so many people and the thoughts of the Killarney business community are with the team at Stobart Air who worked closely and efficiently with Kerry Airport for several years.
“Stobart operated the Kerry-Dublin service with great professionalism and customer care was always a priority. We wish them well as the face a very difficult time,” he said.
Mr Kelleher said every stakeholder must now ensure that they put a collective shoulder to the wheel to restore the link between Farranfore and Dublin which is absolutely vital to the Kerry economy as it is one of greatest arteries into the county.
“Killarney Chamber won’t be found wanting in its commitment to support Kerry Airport and we have every confidence that John Mulhern and his team possess the ability, the knowledge and the resilience to bring about the restoration of the service,” he stated.
He said Kerry Airport has demonstrated through the current pandemic, and on several occasions in the past, that it is resourceful and innovative.
“Anytime previously it has had to deal with a curve ball, it fielded it magnificently, kicked it to touch and got on with the game,” the Chamber chief said.
He said it is important not to lose sight of the fact that, prior to the pandemic, the Kerry-Dublin route was performing very well with 58,021 passengers in 2019 following on from a strong year in 2018.
“It remains a very crucial service and, when restored, it will ensure that Kerry has access to a major hub, both in terms of growing tourism and supporting the region’s economic development.
“Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce is fully committed to help find a pathway forward for the restoration of connectivity,” Mr Kelleher remarked.
Meanwhile, the Kerry Tourism Industry Federation is requesting the government to act quickly and appointment a replacement.
“The loss of the Kerry to Dublin routes is such a severe blow to an industry that has been the most impacted by Covid for over 15 months and will take years to recover,” said Chairman Pat O’Leary.
“Connectivity and transport is the lifeblood to rebuilding tourism. The tourism and aviation sector is critical to the economy and viability of life in Kerry as it impacts on every household,” he added.
Mr O’Leary said it was the first industry to feel the economic devastation of the Covid-19 pandemic and the last to recover.
“The government can save vital tourism and businesses connectivity by moving swiftly and confidently appointing a replacement to service these crucial routes.
“Our thoughts are with the employees at Stobart Air, our colleagues in Kerry Airport and the tourism and aviation industry who are all working so hard on recovery and reopening plans,” the Kerry Tourism Industry Federation Chairman added.
