End of an era as Killarney dentist Brendan Coffey retires

It marks the end of an era for local dentistry as Brendan Coffey prepares to retire after a 38-year career in Killarney.

Brendan returned from England in 1988, buying a house on New Street from Paddy Doyle and converting it into the Killarney Dental Clinic. The practice officially opened its doors on Friday May 13, 1988.
“As I had started the surgery from scratch, I had no idea when or if my first patient would come,” Brendan said. “I didn’t have to wait long, my neighbour Johnny Healy from Healy’s shop in New Street arrived first thing and gave me my start.”
In a fitting completion of the circle, Johnny is booked in as Brendan’s final patient on Wednesday of this week.
Brendan thanked the community and his former colleagues. “The people of Killarney and all around have been the most wonderful, loyal, and friendly people to have met and have the privilege to treat for the last 38 years,” he said. “I would like to give special mention to my wife Brenda, who acted as a hugely popular practice manager for many years.”
In October 2022, Brendan’s son Jack and his wife Emma took over the practice before expanding the business to a state-of-the-art facility at the Reeks Gateway.
“I feel a huge sense of satisfaction and pride in what the practice has become,” Brendan added. “So, I will sign off by saying: easy on the sweets, give up the fags, and don’t eat for two hours.”
See next week’s Killarney Advertiser for a full story on Brendan’s career.

The Hugh O’Flaherty Memorial Society has officially revealed the Humanitarian Medal and a €3,000 bursary that will be presented to a new recipient in Killarney later this year.

The international award programme is returning this October following a six-year absence, made possible through funding from the Kerry County Council Community Support Programme, the Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce, and local sponsors.
The public nomination process is now open to individuals, teams, or voluntary organisations providing exceptional humanitarian services at home or overseas.
Submissions must be sent via email to oflahertysociety2008@gmail.com by the closing date of Friday 10th July 2026. Nominations must be written in 500 words or less, detailing why the nominee deserves the honour. Full details are available at www.hughoflaherty.com.