Senator Mike Kennelly and Cllr Aoife Kennelly have welcomed confirmation from the Office of Public Works (OPW) that long-awaited vegetation clearance works on the River Feale at Listowel Bridge are scheduled to commence from 1 September 2026, following representations he made in Seanad Éireann last May.
In a follow-up response to Senator Kennelly’s Seanad intervention on 19 May 2026, Minister of State Kevin Boxer confirmed that the OPW intends to begin the removal of trees and scrub vegetation downstream of Listowel Bridge. The works, which are expected to take between one and two weeks, are aimed at improving river flow and reducing potential flood risks in the area.
Welcoming the update, Senator Kennelly said: “I raised the condition of the River Feale at Listowel Bridge in the Seanad earlier this year and sought urgent action from the OPW. I am pleased to receive confirmation that vegetation clearance works will commence from 1 September. These works are important in maintaining the river channel and addressing concerns that have been consistently raised by local residents and businesses.”
The OPW has advised that the timing of the works is subject to environmental regulations, including restrictions during the bird nesting season. The project is also complicated by the presence of invasive plant species, including Japanese knotweed and Himalayan balsam.
Senator Kennelly noted that further discussions will be required regarding the removal of gravel deposits on the river island, with these works likely to take place next summer subject to environmental approvals and agreement with Inland Fisheries Ireland.
“While there is more work to be done, this is a positive development and demonstrates that continued engagement and advocacy can deliver progress for Listowel and the wider North Kerry area,” Senator Kennelly added.
Senator Kennelly said he will continue to engage with the OPW and relevant agencies to ensure that all necessary flood mitigation and river maintenance measures are advanced for the benefit of the local Listowel and Kilocrim communities.
