News
Calls to revive Darkness Into Light
A local councillor has called for the reinstatement of the Darkness Into Light charity walk in Killarney, following the event's absence from the local calendar since 2024.
The issue was raised at Wednesday’s Killarney Municipal District meeting, where calls were made for the local authority to support new organisers in getting the fundraiser back on its feet.
The Killarney event was originally founded in 2011 by Marie O’Carroll in memory of her son, Nathan, who tragically took his own life in 2007.
For over a decade, under Marie’s stewardship, the walk raised significant funds for Pieta House’s suicide prevention services.
However, following her decision to step down after the 2024 event, the walk did not take place in 2025.
Cllr John O’Donoghue told the meeting: “It was only after looking at the media last year showing all the towns all over Kerry that ran and walked that I realised Killarney was missing out,”
Darkness Into Light is Pieta’s flagship global fundraiser, with the 2026 national event scheduled to take place on Saturday, May 9. In previous years, the Killarney route through the National Park was considered one of the most scenic and well-attended walks in the country.
Those interested in helping to bring the event back to Killarney can contact Cllr O’Donoghue at cllr.john.odonoghue@kerrycoco.ie.
Photo by Valerie O’Sullivan
CCTV system moves closer to tender
Plans for a long-awaited community-based CCTV system in Killarney town centre have taken a major step forward, with Kerry County Council expected to publish a tender for the project in the coming weeks.
The local authority confirmed that significant groundwork has now been completed, including obtaining approval from An Garda Síochána, completing a Data Protection Impact Assessment (DPIA), and finalising technical specifications.
The progress follows an official response in Dáil Éireann to a Parliamentary Question raised by Kerry TD Michael Cahill, who has repeatedly pressed the Minister for Justice and local officials for updates on the long-delayed scheme.
The introduction of modern CCTV is strongly supported by local businesses, residents, and the Killarney Chamber of Tourism & Commerce to help deter criminal activity and support Garda policing.
Once the tender process is completed, the installation will move ahead under updated national guidelines for community CCTV schemes.
St Brendan’s College student Franciszek (Frank) Jakubowski has claimed a title on the national martial arts stage after winning a gold medal and championship belt at NAGA Ireland, one of the country’s premier Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitions.
The 17-year-old Killarney resident fought through five matches to secure first place in his category at the event. The Fifth Year student trains locally at BJJ Killarney under coach Wilson, who guides his daily skill development. He also credits his older brother Filip, who competes in Cork, for helping him fine-tune his technique, prepare for tournaments, and support his athletic journey.
Jakubowski is a regular competitor on the Irish and international circuit, having built up a strong record across major events. Along with his latest NAGA Ireland belt and gold medal, his recent achievements include two gold medals and a silver medal at the Irish Open, four gold medals at the Grapple Series, and a gold and silver medal performance at the Ground Game Cup in Suwałki.
CCTV system moves closer to tender
CCTV system moves closer to tender Plans for a long-awaited community-based CCTV system in Killarney town centre have taken a...
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