A major new project to enhance the attractiveness of the Kerry Way to visitors using Folklore has been announced by Bealoideas Chiarraí in association with Kerry Group and South Kerry Development Partnership (SKDP).
The project aims to enhance the experience of those using the Kerry Way through incorporating the folklore and heritage of the route into their journey through the most modern communication methods such as phone apps and a website. Bealoideas Chiarraí chairman John O’Connor explained that those using the route can now become immersed in the lives and existence of the people who lived along the route through the app with information on the way of life, old traditions and stories of the region being available in real time to them as they walk. This is the 1st phase of a project which will take several years to complete. This phase will take in sections of the route between Killarney and Glenbeigh.
Researchers from Active Me, who have won the contract to carry out the project, will be in contact with those living along the Kerry Way over the next six months. They will be seeking information regarding sites, scenes and stories, the folklore of the area, in order to provide extensive details available on places, practises and points of interest. The company, under Brian Coakley, will also be taking photographs of sites and areas of interest along the route.
John O’Connor said that Bealoideas Chiarraí is indebted to SKDP and Kerry Group for their assistance in getting this project under way in conjunction with the RDP Leader programme operated by SKDP. He added that they are also very indebted to those living along the Kerry Way, without whose assistance in providing material to the researchers, this project would not be possible.
Commenting on the project, Noel Spillane, CEO of South Kerry Development Partnership Ltd noted that one of the key aims of the Rural Development (LEADER) Programme is to develop and utilise rural heritage resources in a sustainable manner by, and for the good of the community. This project by enhancing the experience of those using the Kerry way by incorporating the folklore & heritage of the route through modern communication methods, will achieve this aim.
Speaking about the new initiative, Mr Frank Hayes, Director of Corporate Affairs, Kerry Group said: “Kerry Group is delighted to be involved in the development of this innovative project. In this digital age, the modern traveller wants to actively engage with their surroundings through an array of devices. This project will provide a unique visitor experience of the Kerry Way, the region, its culture and its people Not only will it play an important role in increasing tourism in the region, but it will also ensure the survival of local heritage from the past, giving both visitors and locals a new perspective on the area”.
Bealoideas Chiarraí have been collecting folklore and running seminars and training events regarding our rich folklore heritage for the past 9 years in association with FAS, The Trustees of Muckross House LTD, Coillte , SKDP, UCD, University of Limerick and Kerry County Council.
