Killarney’s night-time safe status will continue into 2023 as the town has retained its prestigious Purple Flag for another year.

The interim renewal of the sought-after accreditation has been enthusiastically welcomed by the local committee, spearheaded by chairman Frank Doran and involving members of the Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce.

The Purple Flag is the gold standard night economy award for towns and cities and it applies to locations that are deemed attractive and safe between the hours of 5pm and 5am.

Areas awarded the Purple Flag are recognised for providing a vibrant and diverse mix of dining, entertainment and culture while promoting the safety and well-being of visitors and local residents.

Mr Doran attributed the success to the quality and commitment of the working group and the businesses in Killarney town who operate in the night-time economy.

“In order to retain the Purple Flag we must all continue our work with all evening and night-time businesses to further develop the entertainment, food and hospitality offering,” he said.

Killarney will be subject to another full assessment in 2023 and the committee is looking forward to working with local businesses and key stakeholders to help promote the area to the widest possible audience.

Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce President, Niall Kelleher, said it is a great endorsement for the town that it has retained its Purple Flag status every year since it was first awarded in 2014.

“What it means, in essence, is that Killarney has been recognised as one of the most enjoyable places in the country to be between the hours of 5pm and 5am and for achieving excellent management standards outside of daytime trading hours,” he said.

Factors taken into consideration during the adjudication process included after dark safety, cleanliness, vitality, cultural stimulation, traffic flow and lighting, the provision of public transport and broad appeal.

The scheme is managed by the Association of Town and City Management (ATCM) working alongside the Purple Flag Advisory Committee Purple Flag.