1911: First campaign launched for a fixed bridge to Valentia Island.

1914–1950s: Plans delayed by the two world wars and funding shortages, though local committees kept lobbying for decades.

Late 1960s: Government finally approved construction, backed by Kerry County Council and island residents.

1971: Bridge completed and opened as the Maurice O’Neill Memorial Bridge, named after a local man executed in 1942 for republican activities.

Built of reinforced concrete and steel, spanning about 300 metres with a rotating swing section for vessels, unused since 2004.

Carries two lanes of traffic, giving a permanent, year-round road link between Valentia Island and the mainland.