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Gardai continue to adapt to the needs of the community

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As an organisation, the Gardai have tried their best to adapt to the needs of community in Killarney during the COVID pandemic - and as it continues on they are there for those who need assistance. This week Editor Michelle Crean asked local Community Garda Deirdre Quinn from Killarney Garda Station how they're adapting given increased demands from the public such as helping with shopping and prescriptions, and new laws regarding checkpoints and 5km restrictions as the pandemic continues.

 

"In addition to the usual service readers expect from us, I believe one of the most significant contributions we have made since COVID-19, is the Kerry Community Response Forum, which is a free multi-agency service between the HSE, Kerry County Council and An Garda Síochána, that provides essential support to people who need it," Garda Quinn explained.

"I have had the most hilarious responses from the public! Mostly very strange looks and comments from people who see me in full uniform doing the shopping or pharmacy calls, thinking it is for myself!"

 

At Christmas she even had a few extra calls from grandparents who wanted to get gifts and cards for their grandchildren and loved ones, but were unable to do it themselves, or to get someone to do it for them.

"It was so rewarding to be able to do this, because it really meant so much them. I also do a lot of call-backs to people who have experienced domestic related issues. An Garda Síochána understands the added pressure COVID-19 has put on all of us, especially at home, and has recognised the need for someone to reach out. The response has been overwhelming; people have really appreciated this contact."

And as Gardai work hard on the frontline to keep everyone safe, she has performed some less popular duties too!

"Probably the ones I have received the most negative feedback for is the retail premises inspections, licensed premises inspections and checkpoints. We completely understand the frustration everyone is feeling, but sincerely thank everyone for their continued support and co-operation during these unprecedented and extremely challenging times."

FOOD PACKAGES

"Most recently, we just received much needed essential food packages from the Irish Red Cross, for distribution to people who are struggling financially during the pandemic. I have been working with incredible local groups, who will ensure these essential food packages get to the people who need them the most."

And Deirdre wanted to share some important crime prevention advice, as Gardai have noticed a sharp increase in telephone and online scams.

"Never share personal or financial information online or over the phone. If you are in any doubt, ask someone you trust or ring your local Garda station and they will be only too happy to give you sound advice about it," she said.

 

[caption id="attachment_35945" align="alignleft" width="467"] CHECKPOINT: Garda Deirdre Quinn at a local COVID-19 checkpoint carrying out inspections to make sure drivers were within their 5km travel limit.[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_35950" align="alignleft" width="464"] COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS: Garda Deirdre Quinn pictured with pupils from Tiernaboul NS during COVID-19 when the schools were open.[/caption]

 

 

 

 

 

 

[caption id="attachment_35955" align="aligncenter" width="490"] ON PATROL: Garda Deirdre Quinn on a COVID-19 patrol in Killarney.[/caption]

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Newstalk Summer Tour arrives in Killarney

Newstalk’s 2025 Summer Tour, in association with ESB, is making its way to Killarney this week, bringing live broadcasts from the town. On morning, Friday, June 20, Newstalk Breakfast with […]

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Newstalk’s 2025 Summer Tour, in association with ESB, is making its way to Killarney this week, bringing live broadcasts from the town.

On morning, Friday, June 20, Newstalk Breakfast with Ciara Kelly and Shane Coleman will be live from the Café du Parc in the Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa, kicking off at 7 am.
Ciara and Shane are scheduled to speak with local Kerry figures and take a trip on Killarney’s jaunting cars to see the sights.
Kelly said: “I am so excited to head to Killarney. I have had some fantastic memories as a child visiting Kerry and can’t wait to go back for Newstalk’s Summer tour!”
Coleman added: “Kerry is a wonderful place to visit and I am looking forward to seeing its natural beauty, vibrant culture and rich history.”
The week-long tour is taking the full Newstalk experience to towns across Ireland, featuring live shows, special guests, and conversation.

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Ring of Kerry Cycle to honour founder Paddy O’Donoghue

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This year’s Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle, scheduled for July 5, will be run in memory of Paddy O’Donoghue, a founding member of the event.

Mr O’Donoghue, aged 81, from Muckross, passed away following a road collision in Kilgarvan on Tuesday, this week.

Paddy was a retired Kerry County Council engineer, affectionately known as ‘Paddy the Engineer’.

He was a driving force behind the annual charity cycle since its inception in 1982, regularly participating and fundraising for various causes. Beyond his cycling contributions, the Glenflesk native was also a notable footballer, having been part of the East Kerry team that secured the first All-Ireland Senior Football Championship in 1971.

Cathal Walshe, PRO of the Ring of Kerry Cycle said: “On behalf of the Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle I wish to extend sincere sympathy to Brenda and the O’Donoghue family on the sad and sudden loss of Paddy.

“He was a fantastic supporter of the annual charity cycle since it’s inception back in the 80s. A regular participant and wonderful fundraiser for whatever charity he chose. Paddy loved a challenge in whatever he undertook and was the epitome of what the event was all about. We miss the banter and craic but he won’t ever be forgotten. This year’s event will be dedicated to his memory on July the 5th. His likes will never be seen again. Slan Abhaile our friend.”

Tributes have been paid to Mr O’Donoghue, including from his local Glenflesk GAA club, who stated, “Glenflesk GAA would like to offer our sincere condolences to the family and friends of Paddy O’Donoghue on his sad passing. He was a true Glenflesk stalwart as a player, mentor and lifelong supporter.”

Paddy is survived by his wife Brenda, children Florence, Áine, Denise, Brenda, Báirbre, Patrick, and Alice, 17 grandchildren, his brother John, sisters Margaret, Kathleen, and Anna, and a wide circle of relatives and friends.

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