The Local Authority Waters Programme (LAWPRO) has launched its Blue Dot of Iveragh awareness campaign.
The state body, which works to improve water quality, celebrated Iveragh’s blue dots last Saturday (28/101/2025).
Blue dot waterbodies represent Ireland’s best quality waters and are home to many rare and threatened species.
A bronze sculpture ‘Freshwater Pearl Mussel in bronze’ by artist Don Cronin was unveiled by Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity at the Department of Local Government and Heritage Christopher O’Sullivan.
The Iveragh peninsula is unique, in that it is home to 27 rivers, six lakes, three coastal waters and one transitional waterbody, all designated as blue dot waterbodies.
Following the unveiling, LAWPRO hosted a screening of a new documentary made in collaboration with Kerry County Council and CrowCrag Productions, called ‘The Blue Dot Waters of the Iveragh Peninsula’.
The film is a visual journey through the rivers, lakes, and coastal waters of the peninsula.
Narrated by ecologist and broadcaster Anja Murray, it explores the deep connection between local communities and their environment, recognising their passion for the protection and restoration of their Blue Dot waterbodies.
In addition, LAWPRO has published an information booklet profiling a selection of Iveragh’s Blue Dots in more detail.
Speaking at the launch in Sneem, Minister Christopher O’Sullivan said, “The wonderful sculpture by artist Don Cronin and the documentary are not only a celebration of Kerry’s pristine waters, but also a tribute to the communities, landowners, farmers, anglers and other advocates who rely on healthy rivers and lakes and who work together to protect their high status objective.”
Dr. Bernadette White, Western Regional Coordinator and Blue Dot Catchments Programme Coordinator with LAWPRO, stated, “We are delighted to release this film showcasing a diverse range of the highest quality waters in our country and the communities and individuals who make tremendous efforts to protect them.
