Protesters will target Killarney

Right2Water protesters, including Kevin Murphy (centre) will march on the INEC in Killarney. Image: John Reidy
Right2Water protesters, including Kevin Murphy (centre), will march on the INEC in Killarney.
Image: John Reidy

Troublemakers told to stay away from rally

TÁNAISTE Joan Burton and senior Labour ministers and senators will face the full force of public anger in Killarney during the annual Labour Party conference on the last weekend of February.

Thousands of anti water charges protesters are expected to take to the streets as the town hosts a national demonstration to voice opposition to Irish Water and austerity measures imposed by the current administration.

The Labour delegates will be based at the INEC and the protesters plan to march to the venue following a major noon rally at the Market Cross on Saturday, February 28.

The organisers, who expect anti austerity campaigners to travel from all parts of the country, have repeatedly stressed that they want it to be a peaceful protest and they will liaise closely with Gardaí, INEC management and congress security staff to ensure all necessary precautions are taken to avoid disturbances.

It will be a particularly busy weekend in Killarney as, in addition to the three-day Labour gathering, the National Football League glamour clash between arch rivals Kerry and Dublin will be played at Fitzgerald Stadium that Sunday.

Television crews and several news teams will be in town to cover both events.

Killarney Right2 Water campaigner Kevin Murphy, who is one of the main organisers of the demonstration, said the Order of Malta will also be asked to provide emergency first aid cover as the march moves from the town centre to the INEC where a number of anti water charges campaigners will speak.

“We are expecting a large crowd from Killarney, Kerry and across the country to attend. We urge the people to stand with us against the water charge injustice and against austerity,” he said.

“Troublemakers are not welcome and will be isolated and handed over to the gardaí. Members of Right2Water Kerry have always had peaceful protests and will continue to have peaceful, colourful protests,” Mr Murphy added.