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Calls to save historic watch towers from dereliction

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Calls to save historic watch towers from dereliction

Well-known local man Jerry O’Grady, the Chairman of the Monsignor Hugh O'Flaherty Memorial Society, is growing increasing concerned about condition of two buildings of historical importance that are after falling into disrepair.

Two of Killarney's 19th Century stone-built watchtowers are in serious danger of being irretrievably damaged and lost due to official neglect according to Mr O’Grady who is calling for intervention by Kerry County Council or the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

The Tower and Lodge on the Kenmare Road and Round Tower at Lord Brandon's Cottage are in danger of becoming derelict.

“A short few years ago there was talk within the National Parks and Wildlife Service that the [Kenmare Road] building could and should be restored and possibly put to a tourism/heritage use,” Mr O’Grady said.

“At the time, the single-story Lodge was largely intact and the Tower was free of plant life. Unfortunately, nothing was done and today it is all but invisible from the road. There is little doubt but in a short time the structure of the Tower will be damaged beyond repair and will join some other parts of our built heritage such as Ross Cottage, Glena, and Queen’s Cottage as derelict shells or heaps of rubble.”

Mr O’Grady is calling for an official campaign, similar to the one that saved Killarney House to be established to safe and protect the Watch Towers.

“Our now beautiful Killarney House and Gardens was ignored for decades by these agencies and sustained lobbying by local heritage and tourism interests was all but ignored. Without the fortuitous timing of Failte Ireland Funding becoming available and a committed Minister for Heritage being in office at the right time [Jimmy Deenihan], it is safe to assume that it too would have had a similar fate,” he added.

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Overnight water restrictions in Greater Killarney

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Overnight water restrictions in Greater Killarney

Uisce Éireann has introduced overnight water restrictions across parts of Greater Killarney to help reservoir levels recover during the current spell of warm weather.

The restrictions will take effect tonight from 9pm until 7am tomorrow morning. Areas affected include Aghadoe, Beaufort, and Listry on the Mid-Kerry Water Supply Scheme.

Increased demand during the warm weather has meant treated water is being used faster than it can be produced. Uisce Éireann stated that the nighttime shut-offs are necessary to protect the daytime supply for homes, businesses, and essential services.

Operations manager Eoin O’Connell urged local residents and businesses to conserve water where possible:

“Nighttime restrictions are being implemented to support treated reservoir recovery and maintain daytime supply. Conserving water will help protect resources and maintain supply for all. When there is an increase in temperatures it leads to a rise in demand for water. Water is a hugely precious resource, and it is important to conserve water.”

Uisce Éireann is monitoring water levels daily and will conduct a further operational assessment later this week.

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West End and Great Southern team up for theatre experience

A powerful production of one of Ireland’s most celebrated contemporary plays is coming to the Killarney stage this month. In an exciting joint venture, the West End House School of […]

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A powerful production of one of Ireland’s most celebrated contemporary plays is coming to the Killarney stage this month.
In an exciting joint venture, the West End House School of Arts has partnered with the Great Southern Killarney to offer audiences an unrivaled theatre experience.

The West End Players Ensemble will present By the Bog of Cats, Marina Carr’s haunting and critically acclaimed masterpiece, on Wednesday, July 29 and Thursday, July 30 at 8:00pm at the town centre hotel.

Charlie Hughes, the show’s director and Head Tutor at West End House School of Arts, expressed great pride in the milestone, stating he is “so proud that our five years in operation here in Killarney have been able to support and develop such talented local actors to stage this production”.
Set against the stark beauty of the Irish midlands, the compelling drama tells the unforgettable story of Hester Swane, a fiercely independent woman determined to hold on to her home, her daughter, and her place in the world. Rich in Irish folklore, dark humour, and unforgettable characters, Carr’s masterpiece explores themes of love, betrayal, identity, and the enduring pull of the past, offering an unflinching portrait of Irish society.
Maria O’Meara, Director of Rooms at Great Southern Killarney, welcomed the production, saying, “Welcoming such a gripping and powerful production into the hotel is a wonderful way to celebrate creativity and culture. Creating memorable experiences has always been at the heart of the Great Southern Killarney, and we are proud to host an evening that brings people together through the arts.”
Theatregoers can enjoy an exclusive pre-theatre dining experience. A special menu will be available at the five-star Great Southern Hotel’s Arbor Restaurant for €55 per person. Dining reservations can be secured in advance by calling 086 663 8000 or by emailing events@greatsouthernkillarney.com.
The play runs for two hours, including a brief intermission, and is suitable for audiences aged 16 and over. Show tickets must be booked in advance online via Eventbrite at https://bythebogofcats.eventbrite.com

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