“Rising costs in Ireland are affecting every home” Mayor

Mayor of Killarney Cllr Martin Grady, joined demonstrators in Killarney on Sunday, where he expressed his support for the community while acknowledging the growing financial pressures facing households across Ireland.

“I want to sincerely thank the protesters for keeping the demonstration peaceful and respectful,” he said. “I also commend An Garda Síochána for their assistance in ensuring traffic management and public safety throughout the event.”

Cllr Grady highlighted that the ongoing fuel crisis and rising cost of living are no longer abstract concerns, but daily realities for families in Killarney, across Kerry, and throughout the country.

“This is impacting everyone, from young families trying to make a start in life while having a serious impact on hauliers, fishermen, and farmers which will have knock on effects on groceries and building materials. It affects parents commuting to work, families dropping children to school, and individuals simply trying to manage everyday expenses.”

While acknowledging that measures have been introduced at national level, he stressed that they are falling short of what is needed.

“Measures have been taken, but they are not enough. If people were seeing clear benefits through improved services, housing, and healthcare, there would be greater acceptance. People need to feel they are getting real value for the taxes they pay.”

He pointed to Ireland’s position as one of the highest-taxing countries in Europe in terms of carbon taxation.

“Ireland now has one of the highest and fastest-rising carbon taxes in Europe, currently reaching €71 per tonne of CO₂, with plans to increase to €100 per tonne by 2030. This places us among the highest in Europe, second only to countries such as Sweden and Switzerland.”

Cllr. Grady also raised concerns about the burden of electricity costs on Irish households.

“Ireland continues to have some of the highest residential electricity costs in the EU, often ranking alongside Germany and Denmark. Irish households are paying between 30% and 48% more than the EU average, amounting to hundreds of euro extra per year.”

“The people of Ireland deserve fairness. They deserve to see that the taxes they are paying are being reinvested in a way that supports their daily lives. Right now, too many families feel the pressure without seeing the return.”

Wait continues for opening of new hospital despite staffing progress

While significant progress has been made in securing the personnel required to run Killarney’s new Community Nursing Unit, an official opening date for the facility has yet to be confirmed.

The HSE has confirmed that a major recruitment drive is well underway to staff the 130-bed unit, but the commencement of operations remains dependent on final approval from the health watchdog, HIQA.
The update came in a direct response to a Parliamentary Question from Fianna Fáil TD for Kerry, Michael Cahill, who had sought specific clarity on when jobs would be advertised and when the doors would finally open.
Staffing breakdown confirmed
According to the HSE South West, a total of 26.4 whole-time equivalent (WTE) new staff members will be appointed to allow the facility to reach its full capacity. The bulk of this recruitment focuses on nursing, with 20.4 positions currently being filled.
In their reply to Deputy Cahill, the HSE stated: “This campaign was widely advertised throughout HSE South West, closing on 13th March last. Four additional Healthcare assistants will also be recruited, and 1.4 WTE Medical Officers will be appointed.”
The executive also confirmed that catering staff are already in place and that cleaning services will be provided as part of the unit’s lease agreement. Work is also ongoing to increase the number of rehabilitation staff to support the unit’s specialist beds.
Phased transfer of patients
The new purpose-built facility is designed to replace and expand upon services currently provided at the existing Killarney Community Hospital (34 beds) and St Columbanus Hospital (67 beds).
The plan involves a phased transition where all existing staff and patients will move to the new site first. The remaining 29 beds will then be opened gradually as the newly recruited staff come on board, in line with HIQA guidelines.
“The Killarney Community Nursing Unit application to register is currently being processed by HIQA and once approved, patients and residents will transfer on a short, phased basis,” the HSE confirmed.
The unit represents a major upgrade for local healthcare, featuring a dedicated 30-bed dementia unit. This specialist area is comprised of three ten-bed units specifically designed for patients and their families, including three beds set aside for dementia respite.
Deputy Michael Cahill welcomed the detailed staffing breakdown but stressed that the lack of a firm start date remains a concern for many families.
“The confirmation of staffing numbers represents a significant and long overdue step forward,” Deputy Cahill said. “However, it is vital that all remaining posts are filled as quickly as possible so that the additional 29 beds can open without delay.”
“Our older population deserves dignity, care and timely access to services. I will be keeping a close watch on the rollout of staffing and the phased opening of beds to ensure patients and families in Kerry see the full benefit of this investment.”