Ireland Unveils Largest National Park: Spans Over 70,000 Acres
Kerry: The Corca Dhuibne Peninsula in West Kerry has been designated as a National Park by the government, marking the largest such park in Ireland. This significant move aims to safeguard the region’s biodiversity, cultural heritage, tradition, and archaeological sites.
Prior to the establishment of the park, extensive consultations were conducted with communities across West Kerry. The official announcement of the park was made by Darragh O’Brien, Minister for Housing for National Parks and Wildlife, and Malcolm Noonan, Minister of State for Nature. Encompassing over 70,000 acres of land and sea, this marks Ireland’s first Marine National Park, with a notable portion of the park’s area situated underwater. The terrestrial part of the park spans 1,400 acres of land and forest adjacent to Conor Pass.
Last August, the government acquired the land from Irish-American owner Michael Noonan for €6 million, including the catchment area of the Owenmore River, totaling eight kilometres in length with nine lakes.
The newly established National Park encompasses diverse landmarks, including Mount Branton, Inch Beach’s sand dunes, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sceilg Mhichíl, various offshore islands, and vast marine expanses.
Stretching from Kerry Head Shoals in North Kerry to the ancient monastic site of Sceilg Mhichil in South Kerry, this becomes Ireland’s eighth National Park. All incorporated sites benefit from Special Protection Area status under the EU Habitats Directive and the EU Birds Directive, ensuring robust legal protection. The islands are overseen by the Public Works Office and the Irish Lights Commissioners.
The marine park boasts a rich array of flora and fauna, including the endangered freshwater pearl mussel and the natterjack frog, which relies on Inch Beach’s sand dunes for breeding. Additionally, the surrounding seas are teeming with diverse marine life, including sharks, rays, dolphins, and occasional whale visitors. Mount Brandon, Ireland’s tallest peak at 952 metres, partially falls within the park’s boundaries.
Minister Noonan emphasised the park’s critical role in preserving not only Ireland’s biodiversity but also its global significance. Reassurances have been given by the Minister of State for Public Works that the project will not disrupt the daily lives of residents on the Dingle Peninsula, with support from local representatives and TDs.
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