CORCA DHUIBHNE
Kerry’s stunning Corka Dhuibhne Peninsula in West Kerry has been officially declared Ireland’s largest National Park by the government. Covering over 70,000 acres of land and sea, this vast expanse marks Ireland’s first Marine National Park, boasting a unique blend of coastal beauty and ecological diversity.
The announcement, made by Minister for Housing Dara O’Brien and Minister of State for Nature Malcolm Noonan, underscores the government’s commitment to safeguarding biodiversity, tradition, culture, heritage, and archaeology. The park’s creation follows extensive community consultations across West Kerry.
Acquired for €6 million from Irish-American owner Meehol Noonan, the park encompasses Mount Branton, the picturesque sand dunes of Inch Beach, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Scylligh Michill, and numerous islands off the Kerry coast.
From Kerry Head Shoals to the ancient monastic site of Sailigh Michill, the park spans a rich tapestry of landscapes, all designated as Special Protection Areas under EU directives, ensuring robust legal safeguards. Managed by the Public Works Office and the Irish Lights Commissioners, the park also serves as a crucial habitat for endangered species like the freshwater pearl mussel and the natterjack frog.
Moreover, the surrounding seas teem with life, hosting sharks, rays, dolphins, and migratory whales. Ireland’s highest peak, Mount Brandon, towering at 952 meters, adds to the park’s allure.
Minister Noonan emphasized the park’s global significance for biodiversity, while assuring that its development would not disrupt local life on the Dingle Peninsula. With support from regional representatives, this monumental initiative heralds a new chapter in Ireland’s conservation efforts, inviting visitors to explore and cherish its natural wonders.