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New mayor outlines his plans for the district

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Cllr Grady has outlined the key issues he wants to be implemented during his 12-moth tenure and the Mayor of the Killarney Municipal District.

"Coming in as the new Cathairleacht, I know that working alone and aloof from the rest will bring just minimalist progress but working together we can achieve great things. Without taking from what might emerge as a collective, it is important to outline what I see as the most important projects to progress,” he said.

Social and Affordable Homes: Addressing the lack of social and affordable homes, noting it has been over two decades since Killarney offered Local Authority Affordable Homes. He highlighted that many young families are above the threshold for social housing but cannot secure mortgages for average homes.
Reduced Planning Restrictions: Seeking reduced restrictions on planning in rural areas to enable young families to build in their native townlands, aiming to counter emigration.

N22 Farranfore Killarney Bypass and Traffic:

Tackling Killarney’s worsening traffic issues, particularly with the N22 Farranfore Killarney Bypass. He noted, "It’s great to see tourist coming in but the people of Killarney can’t move."

Town Amenities:
Increasing amenities, specifically calling for a much-needed community hub for both youth and retirees.
Direen Site Development:

Advocating for the completion of Phase 1 at the Direen Site and the progression of plans for Phase 2.

Áras Phádraig Theatre:
Supporting the construction of a theatre at the Áras Phádraig site.

Pretty Polly Site Development:
Aiming for the Pretty Polly Site to be developed into a Hospitality and Tourism College with campus accommodation.

St. Finian's Hospital Transformation:
Seeking the transformation of St. Finian's Hospital into suitable accommodation, medical, or educational facilities.
Traffic and Parking Issues:
Addressing the worsening traffic and parking issues within the town.

Ambulance Restoration:

Committing to seeking the restoration of Killarney's second ambulance, which was lost 13 years ago.
Cllr Grady also highlighted the Cork/Kerry Cancer Bus.

"I hope for continued support from this Council for the Cork/Kerry Cancer Bus a charity I donate a percentage of my salary to since becoming an elected councilor, I want to commend each and every councilor along with the Director to Finance and Town Manager Angela McAllen for allocating funding each year to this worthy cause."

He stressed the importance of promoting Killarney as a safe tourist destination, recognising the National Park's scenery and the town's upkeep by staff and voluntary groups.

Cllr Grady concluded his acceptance speech by thanking his mother Julia, his late father Donal, his wife Emma, and his three children Amelia, Jack, and Rosie, along with all his family and friends for their ongoing support. 

"During my time as Cathaoirleach I will  wear the chain with honour and respect and commit to be hardworking, fair and treat everyone equal, i look forward to working with fellow councillors, management and staff across all departments of Kerry County Council for the betterment of Killarney Municipal District and most importantly the people we serve,” he said.

 

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Killarney Innovation Centre seeking funding for major expansion

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The Killarney Innovation Centre has announced plans for a new building project to meet the growing demand from small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the region.

The not-for-profit centre, which has operated for over 25 years, aims to expand its capacity to provide workspace and growth supports for local businesses.

Plans for the expansion have been in development for two years.

However, the centre is currently facing challenges in securing the capital financing needed to begin construction.

Management noted that while the demand for space is clear, existing government supports for such infrastructure are limited and difficult to access.

“This project is about creating the conditions in which businesses can thrive and contribute to the regional economy,” said Mr Counihan, Centre Chairperson. “The demand we are seeing reflects the ambition of local enterprises, and it is essential that infrastructure keeps pace with that growth.”

Over the past two years, the board has engaged with various funding bodies and agencies to secure financial backing.

Mr Counihan expressed frustration at the current funding landscape, stating there is a “disconnect between recognised need and available supports.”

The centre is calling for a renewed focus on capital investment for enterprise hubs, highlighting that such projects deliver long-term returns through job creation and regional competitiveness.

The proposed build would allow the centre to accommodate more businesses and provide enhanced services for evolving industry needs.

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Aghadoe Heights Hotel appoints new Spa Manager

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Aghadoe Heights Hotel and Spa has announced the appointment of Lorna Jankovic as Spa Manager.

The move marks a significant step in the hotel’s continued investment in luxury wellness as it prepares to unveil new innovations at its award-winning facility.

Jankovic brings extensive experience from senior roles in luxury hotels and destination spas across Ireland and Europe.

Her career includes positions at The Shelbourne in Dublin, Corinthia Hotels International in the UK, Malta, and Portugal, as well as experience with wellness cruiseliner Steiner Transocean.
“Our aim is to offer something that feels like a true reset,” said Jankovic. “We want guests to step away from constant stimulation and reconnect through touch, presence and thoughtful care. It’s about creating space for intentional rest and holistic luxury.”

The appointment comes at a pivotal time for the spa, with several developments set to be announced in the coming months.

These include the introduction of new treatments, the expansion of bespoke therapies, and updated holistic wellness programming.

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