Taoiseach Enda Kenny rounded up his weekend visit to Kerry today at a Killarney Chamber of Tourism & Commerce lunch at Killarney Golf & Fishing Club, home of the 2011 Irish Open. Speaking at the lunch, the Taoiseach commended the Killarney Chamber of Tourism & Commerce and all the participating organisations for their success in promoting the Irish Open despite the support of a major sponsor and believes it will be a tremendous event once again this year. He said he was “very happy to be here supporting all of the organisations who are welding together in a time of challenge to do this”. The Taoiseach added “The quality and success of what happens here in Killarney is built through teamwork.

You have been leaders for many years in a fragile industry by recognising that working together achieves results”.

Chamber president Tom Randles commended the government’s work to date in helping businesses and especially tourism related businesses. He called on the Taoiseach however, to continue with this positive effort particularly in the area of access to the Kerry region and transport. Mr. Randles said

“The proposed N22 Ballyvourney to Macroom bypass is well along the way in the planning and we would hope that if there is to be further infrastructural improvements that this is top of the list”.

He urged the Taoiseach to “help us eliminate the bureaucracy facing business. It is very tough to get customers through our door yet we seem to be dealing more and more with governmental administration and quite often if affects smaller businesses the most”.

The Taoiseach ended his key note speech by promising that the government will continue with their endeavours to “end the rip off mentality” associated with Ireland and to help people “enjoy a quality experience when they visit this country”.

The Taoiseach remarked that he would be back in Killarney again in a few weeks’ time for the Irish Open which takes place from July 28th – 31st, mentioning that US Open champion Rory McIlroy will be a huge boost to the event and is thrilled that he will be playing in the competition.