Killarney has officially been recognised as an Autism Friendly Town, joining Clonakilty and Maynooth as only the third town in Ireland to achieve this designation in partnership with AsIAm, Ireland’s National Autism Charity.

A celebration was held at the Killarney Plaza Hotel, bringing together local business leaders, families, and advocates to acknowledge the community's collaborative efforts in creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for autistic people.
Adam Harris, CEO and Founder of AsIAm said: “Today is a testament to what can be achieved when communities come together to embrace and understand neurodiversity. Killarney is leading the way in creating a society where everyone feels they belong.”
The event honoured over 30 local businesses that have undergone training and implemented changes to better support autistic individuals and their families. Representatives from the autistic community also shared their positive experiences and emphasised the importance of ongoing education, acceptance, and collaboration.
Jessica O’Connor, Chairperson of the Autism Friendly Killarney Committee, added: “This milestone represents just the beginning of Killarney’s journey in building an inclusive society where everyone, regardless of neurodiversity, can participate fully in community life.”

Killarney and District Motor Club is set to introduce a special "quiet" hour at the Lewis Road Car Park ahead of the Rally of the Lakes parade on Friday.

.This initiative marks the first major event in the town to offer an autism-friendly element, following Killarney's recent designation as an Autism Friendly Town. The Rally of the Lakes follows other major Killarney events such as the St. Patrick's Day Parade and the Christmas in Killarney parade.
From 5:30 pm to 6:20 pm, the car park will provide a calmer environment for autistic people and their families to meet rally cars and drivers, without the usual loud engine revving.
Organisers are encouraging the general public to enjoy the parade around Killarney town during this time, allowing the car park to remain a relaxed space.
While the area will be quieter, it is important to note that some rally cars will still be arriving and passing through, and may still produce some noise.
This event is part of Killarney's ongoing efforts to be an Autism Friendly Town and is being supported by the Rally of the Lakes organisers.

Kerry Teachta Dála, Michael Cahill, is urging towns across Ireland to follow Killarney's lead after the town was officially recognised as an Autism Friendly Town.

Deputy Cahill expressed his pride in Killarney's achievement, highlighting the town's hard work and perseverance as a model for the entire county to emulate.
"I would urge all towns and villages in Kerry to follow the lead given by Killarney in this instance, so that Kerry county can achieve the status of an Autism Friendly County. We must strive to ensure that all places are accessible to everyone and that everybody is included," stated Deputy Cahill.
"Killarney has opened the door and great credit is due to everyone involved and we must now follow their lead. This is an opportunity that cannot be missed."