Councillor criticises camper waste dumping in Donegal

Gardaí in Clare reported a series of burglaries at three caravan parks in Fanore, Spanish Point and Doolin within 24 hours. In one incident, a fridge freezer, TVs, kettle, and tools were stolen; in others, no items were taken. Three suspects were seen fleeing. Authorities appeal for dash-cam footage or information.

Clare County Councillor Bill Slattery has stated that campervans are reducing revenue from parking charges in Lahinch. The council collected €281,514 in parking fees and fines last year. Slattery believes this figure would be higher if campervan drivers were not competing with regular motorists for spaces. He has called for designated parking for campers in the town.

Jason Carmody, Chairperson of the Irish Motorhome Working Group, stated that Donegal Town residents should recognize the economic benefits brought by camper van and motorhome tourists. The comments follow criticism of the number of camper vans parked in The Pier area.

Two separate Garda investigations are underway following burglaries at caravan parks in west and north Clare. The first incident at Fanore Caravan Park resulted in no items taken. The second, at Spanish Point, involved the theft of a fridge freezer, two TVs, a kettle, extension lead, and tools. Gardaí are appealing for information.

Volkswagen brought the ID. Buzz back to the United States — complete with a mattress and curtains. A wildfire in Arizona burned down a dozen motorhomes, and Lake Tekir in Turkey flooded just as many. While Ibiza fines illegal campers up to €30,000, a retired couple from Mallorca has been living in 10 m² for five years and saving €1,400 a month. Plus: the largest campsite in the US at 607 pitches, a closed naturist beach on the North Sea, and Dolby Atmos in a trailer — all in this edition.

A review of five family-friendly camping locations in Ireland is presented. The list includes Hidden Valley Holiday Park in Wicklow, Clifden Camping & Caravan Park in Connemara, Dingle Activities Centre in Kerry, Dungannon Park in Tyrone, and Lough Ennell Caravan Park in Westmeath. Prices, contact details, and available amenities are provided.