It has been confirmed to the Killarney Advertiser that a deal has been reached for the extension to Beaufort Burial Ground.

The Killarney Advertiser understand that contracts have been issued for signing and this should be concluded very shortly.

“I have continuously worked on this over the last council term and I'm glad that by the skin of its teeth it will be over the line before the new council term starts,” said Cllr Johnny Healy Rae who is contesting this week’s local elections in the Kenmare District.

“I want to thank everyone involved. I'm especially glad that I played my part in dealing with Kerry County Council and the landowner involved as much as I possibly could. I want to thank the land owner in a very special way for dealing with Kerry County Council on this parcel of land as it was not offered for sale but he has dealt with them in a professional and nice manor all the way along. “

“I also want to thank Kerry County Council management and staff for all the work that they have put into this, particularly Moira Murrell, Martin O’Donoghue and Paul Neary, who played a leading role in concluding this.”

“I'm glad that the people of the parish of Beaufort will not have to be taken to another parish to be buried as it would be very hurtful to them not to be buried alongside their own loved ones.”