O

ONCE again Killarney has stepped up to the mark and retained its Purple Flag status. There was a full assessment of Killarney's night-time economy in August and the town has passed the test with flying colours. Purple Flag is the international accreditation for town centres in the evening and at night from 5pm to 5am. Like a Blue Flag, centres that achieve the required standards of 30 criteria can fly the flag.

Paul O'Neill, chairman of the Purple Flag Working Group, expressed his gratitude to a real team effort within the business and wider community: “There really was a fantastic buy-in from the whole town during the adjudication. I have to thank everyone that helped make it a successful examination.

“The assessors received a warm Killarney welcome wherever they went. Management and staff were knowledgeable and informative. We have a few little areas to work on for future improvement but that's something to work towards,” he said.

The assessors were particularly impressed with Killarney House and Gardens and remarked that it will be a major asset in offering a variety of evening services.

“It is another feather in the cap for the town and reinforces what we already know, that Killarney provides facilities, attractions and a unique atmosphere to be enjoyed by locals and visitors alike,” Paul added.

The Killarney Purple Flag working group is a joint initiative between the Chamber of Tourism & Commerce and Kerry County Council. Killarney is one of 18 towns in Ireland to attain a Purple Flag. The annual Purple Flag weekend takes place from 7th to 9th October and will feature a family fun day in the town centre on Saturday 8th October.

“We want to celebrate the success of retaining our Purple Flag status with everyone. It's a bit of fun for the family so we invite everyone to Main Street from 3pm to 6pm on Saturday 8th next,” said Paul.
 

 
Above: The Purple Flag team pictured with the award at Killarney Garda Station.
PICTURE: EAMONN KEOGH