News
Local pharmacy to close after 93 years
CLOSURE: Patrick 'Paddy O'Donoghue pictured outside The Medical Hall many years ago.
Exclusive
By Michelle Crean
It’s been a strong presence on the Killarney landscape since 1926 - but that’s soon to change as O’Donoghue’s Medical Hall on Main St - plans to close their doors for good.
The decision was taken due to the retirement of the directors and a sale of the building has been agreed.
Factors such as lack of parking, the upsurge in out of town pharmacies and business rates also played a part in the decision, Maura O’Donoghue explained to the Killarney Advertiser this week.
Her father Patrick ‘Paddy’ O’Donoghue, who was instrumental in establishing The Gleneagle Hotel, bought the premises in 1926 from PD Foleys. He then extended the premises into O’Leary’s Bar in 1954, and worked in the business until he died aged 88.
It was then run by his family, who now plan to retire, with a closing date set for Saturday, November 30.
“Business is getting tougher,” Maura said.
“And there’s a big building there that is being underutilised. Lack of parking punished us as well as the increase in out of town pharmacies.”
She said it’s with regret that they say goodbye but want to thank all their loyal customers who have supported their business for decades.
“We will miss it and thanks to everyone for their support. And we’d ask that customers please call before the closing date to redeem their vouchers.”
Green light for Torc Dinis walkway
Planning approval has been granted for a long-awaited lakeside walkway and cycleway connecting Torc and Dinis inside Killarney National Park.
An Coimisiún Pleanála confirmed permission for the elevated platform project, which will complete the popular scenic loop while removing a dangerous 800-metre section along the busy N71 Killarney to Kenmare road.
Walkers and cyclists currently have to navigate narrow bends alongside heavy vehicular traffic and tour buses to complete the circuit between the Dinis and Torc car parks.
Mayor of Killarney John O’Donoghue welcomed the decision, calling it a transformative development for the region: “Since beginning in the Council in 2021, this has been one of my priorities as an issue I inherited from my predecessor Michael Gleeson, he being the first person to initially pursue the idea. I have repeatedly kept it on the agenda at Council meetings and now delighted to see we finally have positive news as this decision, which has been long overdue and eagerly awaited, will prove transformative for the area.”
Mayor O’Donoghue added: “The path, which will be on the lakeside, will offer views to rival those anywhere in the world and I have no doubt will prove very popular with locals and visitors alike. Huge credit is due to Kerry County Council and the NPWS for their co-operation on the issue. Once the decision has passed through its statutory waiting period, the design and tender stage can begin.”
The project, which will be built on a raised platform to protect the natural habitat beneath, will also be fully accessible for people with mobility issues. Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce also welcomed the green light, noting that the completed loop will create a major safe attraction showcasing Muckross Lake, Dinis Cottage, and the Old Weir Bridge.
LAKESIDE PATH: An Coimisiún Pleanála has approved planning permission for a new raised walkway and cycleway connecting Torc and Dinis in Killarney National Park.
LOCAL GOLD: Terrie O’Shea, founder and owner of Killarney-based business Sorella Berries, celebrating her Gold award win at the Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards held in Dingle last week. Her hand-crafted chocolate covered strawberries secured the top spot in national competition, earning recognition for the local food producer on the national stage.
Green light for Torc to Dinis walkway
Green light for Torc Dinis walkway Planning approval has been granted for a long-awaited lakeside walkway and cycleway connecting Torc...
LOCAL GOLD:
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