News
Local farms selected for new social farming respite programme
Local farms selected for new social farming respite programme
Several farms across the wider Killarney area have been selected to take part in Kerry Social Farming’s newly launched summer respite programme for people with disabilities
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The initiative was officially opened by Minister for Children, Disability, Equality and Kerry TD Norma Foley at Patrick and Mary B Murphy’s dairy farm in Ballycarbery West, Cahirciveen. In total, the project provides up to 100 people with disabilities the opportunity to participate in hands-on farming experiences and supportive social outlets.
Among the initial intake, 15 participants are based in Killarney, two in Beaufort, and one each in Kilcummin and Glenflesk.
The scheme forms part of the HSE’s €5 million Summer Respite Initiative. Along with day-to-day farm activities, participants will enjoy group outings, including visits to agri-tourism enterprises, livestock marts, county fairs, and local scenic spots.
Speaking at the launch, Minister Foley said:
“It is an honour to launch this summer respite programme funded by the Department of Children, Disability and Equality via the HSE and delivered by Kerry Social Farming. This programme gives people with disabilities hands-on experience of the joys of being on a farm, supporting their wellbeing and enhancing their quality of life. Particular thanks to Joe McCrohan and the SKD team, Patrick and Mary B for their hospitality, all the host farmers and the participants themselves who bring such energy, enjoyment and fun to the programme.”
Minister Foley also praised the growth of Kerry Social Farming since its establishment 13 years ago, noting that the organisation expanded from delivering 76 social farming days in 2013 to 2,500 in 2025.
The launch was attended by Noel Spillane, Chief Executive of South Kerry Development Partnership; Joseph McCrohan, Manager of Kerry Social Farming; Eamon Horgan, Chair of the Kerry Social Farming working group; and Mary Keane, HSE Disability Client Services Manager for Kerry.
No firm timeframe for St Finan’s masterplan
There is still no guaranteed timeline for the redevelopment of the St Finan’s site in Killarney, despite ongoing work between Kerry County Council, the HSE, and the Land Development Agency (LDA).
The issue was raised at a recent Killarney Municipal District meeting by Councillor Maura Healy-Rae, who asked the council for an update on its engagement with the Department of Housing, the LDA, and the HSE regarding the future of the prominent landbank.
Responding to the query, a senior council official confirmed that while Kerry County Council, the HSE, and the LDA are jointly developing a masterplan and infrastructure delivery strategy for the site, progress remains contingent on support.
The official stated that a funding application has been submitted to progress the masterplan and that background work is currently ongoing.
Litter bins were previously removed from Lower New Street in Killarney due to ongoing issues with people using public bins to dispose of household waste.
The matter was raised at the Killarney Municipal District meeting by Councillor Martin Grady, who called for additional litter bins to be installed along Lower New Street, specifically along the stretch from Christy Healy’s shop to Presentation Secondary School, citing a lack of disposal facilities in the area.
In response, Kerry County Council confirmed that while bins had been taken away due to inappropriate domestic waste dumping, a litter bin will now be reinstated on a six-month trial basis.
Council officials stated they will closely monitor usage over the trial period to evaluate its effectiveness and ensure it is used properly.
Litter bins to return to New Street
Litter bins were previously removed from Lower New Street in Killarney due to ongoing issues with people using public bins to dispose of household waste.
The matter was raised at the Killarney Municipal District meeting by Councillor Martin Grady, who called for additional litter bins to be installed along Lower New Street, specifically along the stretch from Christy Healy’s shop to Presentation Secondary School, citing a lack of disposal facilities in the area.
In response, Kerry County Council confirmed that while bins had been taken away due to inappropriate domestic waste dumping, a litter bin will now be reinstated on a six-month trial basis.
Council officials stated they will closely monitor usage over the trial period to evaluate its effectiveness and ensure it is used properly.
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