Hopes that the phased transfer of patients and residents to the new Killarney Community Nursing Unit would finally begin yesterday, Monday, August 10, have been dashed after yet another deadline passed without the move taking place.

The latest delay comes despite recent optimism following negotiations under the auspices of the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC). It was believed an agreement between the HSE and representative unions—including the INMO, SIPTU, and Fórsa—had cleared the final hurdles regarding staff transfers and safe staffing levels.

Confirmations had been issued by HSE National Director Julie O’Neill and local public representatives, including Kerry TD Michael Cahill, setting Monday, August 10, as the firm start date for the phased opening of the state-of-the-art facility on Lewis Road.

However, as of Tuesday, August 11, the doors remain closed to patients, marking the latest in a long series of false starts for the multimillion-euro unit.

Families who have waited months to see their loved ones move into the modern, purpose-built residential care home face renewed frustration and uncertainty as they await official clarity from the HSE on why yesterday’s target date was missed and when the transfer will actually commence.

Corrina Griffin returns to inspire Golf Club juniors

The future of junior golf at Killarney Golf & Fishing Club received a welcome boost recently as club member Corrina Griffin returned to her home club to host a coaching workshop and Q&A session for the Junior Girls.

Corrina, who started golfing at the club at age eight, progressed through hard work to represent Ireland at Under-16 international level before earning a golf scholarship to the United States. She is currently studying Business and entering her final year competing on the women’s golf team at Texas Wesleyan University in Fort Worth, Texas.
Wearing her Texas Wesleyan colours, Corrina spoke to the young golfers about her journey from junior ranks in Killarney to collegiate golf in the US, highlighting the dedication required to maintain a scholarship and the wide-ranging opportunities the sport provides.

The event featured a Q&A session, golf skills coaching, and informal chats, offering the girls practical advice from a local player who successfully reached the international stage.
Killarney Golf & Fishing Club Junior Officer Julie Kelly praised the impact of the visit. She said:
“It was fantastic to have Corrina back at the Club sharing her story with our junior girls. Seeing someone who started here at Killarney, represented Ireland and has gone on to fulfil her dream of studying and competing in the United States is a real inspiration. Her journey is a wonderful example of what can be achieved through hard work, dedication and perseverance.”