By Michelle Crean

A centre which plays an increasingly important role in the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Kerry welcomed a special visitor this week.

During her visit on Monday, Minister for Education Norma Foley was impressed with the set up of Killarney Innovation Centre which is currently home to over 17 different companies involved in areas such as financial services, e-commerce, website and software development, engineering, project management, health and safety and many short-term clients, offering a diverse range of business services and solutions.

Chairperson Mr Sean Counihan and members of the board, Tomás Hayes and Caitriona Roberts, were delighted to welcome her in and show her exactly what the Deerpark centre does.

During her visit Minister Foley was given a tour of the centre showcasing the services and amenities that are available to clients and small to medium businesses based in the centre.

The Minister also had an opportunity to have some informal meetings with some of the centre clients to discuss their company details and successes and challenges in the business world.

The site visit included a follow up meeting with the board members to share and discuss the future plans for the centre.

“It was wonderful to welcome the Minister for education to the centre and highlight the centre's capacity and facilities that help to support and grow business in the greater Kerry region,” Centre Chairperson, Mr Sean Counihan, said.