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Concerns over accommodation for asylum seekers and refugees

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A Kerry County Councillor has said that prior to the granting of licenses to open accommodation centres for the housing of asylum seekers/refugees, Kerry County Council, as the Planning Authority, should first be allowed view such applications prior to any decision being reached.

“The influx of large numbers into small rural towns and villages could have the effect of increasing the population by as much as 50 percent, in places where infrastructure and facilities are already sadly lacking,” Councillor Michael Cahill stated at a recent Municipal District meeting.

“Medical and childcare facilities, transport, employment, water and sewerage are very often totally inadequate for present population levels, and the Planning Authority should be allowed advise the Licensing Body of where improvements need to be made prior to any permissions being granted. The advice of the HSE should also be sought and strictly adhered to in advance of any future contracts being signed."

Already, in Kerry, there are six such facilities, seven prior to the wholly unsuitable centre being closed in Cahersiveen, he added.

“Also, the distribution of licenses as per the statistics, raises another issue. How is it six centres were issued with licenses in county Kerry, seven including Cahersiveen, while Dublin have only two. The breakdown shows 10 counties with one centre each, six counties with two and five with none at all. 22 of the 44 licenses were granted to applicants in five counties. 50 percent of the licenses granted to 19 percent of the counties. This is astonishing and it has led to a very real fear amongst communities throughout our county. It is obvious that Kerry has taken on comparatively more than its obligations in regard to providing accommodation for asylum seekers at this point.”

Following Councillor Cahill's proposal, it was unanimously agreed to write to the relative Government Departments in respect of the matter.

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Deenagh Lodge to host Alzheimer’s Memory Walk

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Killarney National Park will serve as the venue for this year’s Kerry Alzheimer’s Memory Walk on Sunday, September 20.

Participants will gather at the Deenagh Lodge ahead of an 11.00am start to complete a 5km scenic route through the park.

The event takes place on the eve of World Alzheimer’s Day as part of a nationwide series of walks supported by Aviva.


Now in its seventh year, the initiative raises vital funds for The Alzheimer Society of Ireland to support local dementia services, including daycare centres, family carer training, social clubs, dementia cafés, and the national helpline.

Last year, nearly 3,000 walkers across Ireland raised over €240,000 for the cause.


The Kerry walk will be led by local champions Kathriona Sheehan, Niamh Murphy, Lynda Phillips, and Melissa Molyneaux, who are walking in support of all those living with dementia.
“We are proud to lead our annual Alzheimer’s Memory Walk supported by Aviva to help fund local dementia services in Kerry,” they said. “The event is about community and helping spread awareness by walking together to raise vital funds for care, support, and hope for the days ahead. Join us in Killarney on Sunday, 20th September to show your support.”


With over 40 walks scheduled across Ireland, members of the public can walk in memory of a loved one or to show solidarity. Further details and registration are available at memorywalk.ie.

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Gary Moynihan wins racecourse style title

Style reigned supreme at Killarney Racecourse as local resident Gary Moynihan and Offaly’s Sylwia Novak captured the top honours at the Canella Lane Best Dressed Day. Moynihan, a local neuromuscular […]

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Style reigned supreme at Killarney Racecourse as local resident Gary Moynihan and Offaly’s Sylwia Novak captured the top honours at the Canella Lane Best Dressed Day.

Moynihan, a local neuromuscular therapist, claimed Best Dressed Gentleman in a made-to-measure six-button burgundy double-breasted suit with a navy check from Saville Menswear in Cork. He completed the winning look with a shirt and paisley tie from Simply Suits Killarney and brown derby shoes from Pavers at the Killarney Outlet Centre.
Best Dressed Lady was awarded to Novak, a hospital personal assistant from Tullamore, who wore a red polka-dot ensemble and custom hat designed by milliner Rita Daly, featuring sustainable jewellery made from recycled plastic.
Canella Lane owner Ciana Aspell praised the high standard of fashion on the day, while Killarney Racecourse Manager Karl McCay thanked the sponsors and racegoers for their support.
With the summer season now wrapped up, the team at Killarney Racecourse is gearing up for the October Festival on October 4 and 5, featuring its first-ever Student Raceday with SPIN South West on the Monday. Early ticket booking is advised.

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