Local councillor, Martin Grady, has called on Killarney Municipal District to consider the Derreen Site (Phase 2) as a potential location for a Youth Hub and a venue for retirement groups such as the Women’s Shed.

Speaking at a recent council meeting, Cllr. Grady highlighted the lack of amenities for both young people and older adults in the town. “Some people may believe Killarney has it all, that’s not the case,” he said. “In terms of tourism we may have it all, but for our teens and senior citizens we are lacking amenities.”
Grady said there is a need for a safe space for young people to gather, particularly during the winter months. “Teens will tell you themselves the lack of amenities can lead to anti-social behaviour. They need a safe place to meet up, with facilities like pool tables, snooker, and a bowling alley,” he told Wednesday’s Killarney Municipal District meeting.
He also highlighted the growing number of older adults in Killarney, citing census data that shows one in three residents is over 60.

“The Killarney Women’s Shed and Active Retirement Group need a purpose-built, permanent home to meet the needs of 160 women currently signed up,” he added.
Grady pointed out the challenges faced by these groups when renting spaces, such as limited access and the inconvenience of constantly setting up and dismantling equipment. He stressed the importance of a dedicated space for these groups to connect, engage in activities, and alleviate feelings of isolation and loneliness.

Calls for youth hub and retirement centre at Dereen

Local councillor, Martin Grady, has called on Killarney Municipal District to consider the Derreen Site (Phase 2) as a potential location for a Youth Hub and a venue for retirement groups such as the Women’s Shed.

Speaking at a recent council meeting, Cllr. Grady highlighted the lack of amenities for both young people and older adults in the town. “Some people may believe Killarney has it all, that’s not the case,” he said. “In terms of tourism we may have it all, but for our teens and senior citizens we are lacking amenities.”
Grady said there is a need for a safe space for young people to gather, particularly during the winter months. “Teens will tell you themselves the lack of amenities can lead to anti-social behaviour. They need a safe place to meet up, with facilities like pool tables, snooker, and a bowling alley,” he told Wednesday’s Killarney Municipal District meeting.
He also highlighted the growing number of older adults in Killarney, citing census data that shows one in three residents is over 60.

“The Killarney Women’s Shed and Active Retirement Group need a purpose-built, permanent home to meet the needs of 160 women currently signed up,” he added.
Grady pointed out the challenges faced by these groups when renting spaces, such as limited access and the inconvenience of constantly setting up and dismantling equipment. He stressed the importance of a dedicated space for these groups to connect, engage in activities, and alleviate feelings of isolation and loneliness.