Gathering Could Yield €150M Boost For Kerry

An additional €150 million could flow into Kerry next year if the Gathering proves to be a success. Jimmy Deenihan, the arts and heritage minister, and Terry O’Brien, Kerry myor, announced the 150 events plant for the initiative last month. "We are all aware of the success of the large festivals in Kerry, such as the Rose of Tralee Festival, Killarney Summer Fest, Listowel Writers Week, and Puck Fair," said Mr O’Brien. "They will have their own Gathering element which will be hugely successful. However, the smaller events put on by communities around Kerry will also be special." Mr Deenihan called on local people to spread the word globally. "We now need to ensure that people all over the world are aware of The Gathering and are able to come here to help us celebrate our heritage," he said. Planned events include: * Tralee International Marathon on Mar 16. * A celebration of Killorglin’s Heritage, on Apr 19 and 20. * Cuckoo Walking Festival, Tarbert, May 3-6. Heroes Week, Tralee, Jun 12-17.