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New mayor outlines his plans for the district

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Cllr Grady has outlined the key issues he wants to be implemented during his 12-moth tenure and the Mayor of the Killarney Municipal District.

"Coming in as the new Cathairleacht, I know that working alone and aloof from the rest will bring just minimalist progress but working together we can achieve great things. Without taking from what might emerge as a collective, it is important to outline what I see as the most important projects to progress,” he said.

Social and Affordable Homes: Addressing the lack of social and affordable homes, noting it has been over two decades since Killarney offered Local Authority Affordable Homes. He highlighted that many young families are above the threshold for social housing but cannot secure mortgages for average homes.
Reduced Planning Restrictions: Seeking reduced restrictions on planning in rural areas to enable young families to build in their native townlands, aiming to counter emigration.

N22 Farranfore Killarney Bypass and Traffic:

Tackling Killarney’s worsening traffic issues, particularly with the N22 Farranfore Killarney Bypass. He noted, "It’s great to see tourist coming in but the people of Killarney can’t move."

Town Amenities:
Increasing amenities, specifically calling for a much-needed community hub for both youth and retirees.
Direen Site Development:

Advocating for the completion of Phase 1 at the Direen Site and the progression of plans for Phase 2.

Áras Phádraig Theatre:
Supporting the construction of a theatre at the Áras Phádraig site.

Pretty Polly Site Development:
Aiming for the Pretty Polly Site to be developed into a Hospitality and Tourism College with campus accommodation.

St. Finian's Hospital Transformation:
Seeking the transformation of St. Finian's Hospital into suitable accommodation, medical, or educational facilities.
Traffic and Parking Issues:
Addressing the worsening traffic and parking issues within the town.

Ambulance Restoration:

Committing to seeking the restoration of Killarney's second ambulance, which was lost 13 years ago.
Cllr Grady also highlighted the Cork/Kerry Cancer Bus.

"I hope for continued support from this Council for the Cork/Kerry Cancer Bus a charity I donate a percentage of my salary to since becoming an elected councilor, I want to commend each and every councilor along with the Director to Finance and Town Manager Angela McAllen for allocating funding each year to this worthy cause."

He stressed the importance of promoting Killarney as a safe tourist destination, recognising the National Park's scenery and the town's upkeep by staff and voluntary groups.

Cllr Grady concluded his acceptance speech by thanking his mother Julia, his late father Donal, his wife Emma, and his three children Amelia, Jack, and Rosie, along with all his family and friends for their ongoing support. 

"During my time as Cathaoirleach I will  wear the chain with honour and respect and commit to be hardworking, fair and treat everyone equal, i look forward to working with fellow councillors, management and staff across all departments of Kerry County Council for the betterment of Killarney Municipal District and most importantly the people we serve,” he said.

 

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Lawlor’s Cross animator wins seven awards at Animation Dingle

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Lawlor's Cross animator wins seven awards at Animation Dingle


Muireann Mulvihill, a talented young animator from Lawlor’s Cross, achieved major success at the 2026 Animation Dingle Festival.

Her short film, Anam, created alongside collaborator Ailbhe Fearon at IADT Dún Laoghaire, became one of the most decorated entries in the history of the prestigious event.
The film was selected from 108 international entries and went on to win seven awards out of nine nominations. The accolades included Best Irish Student, Best Writer, Best Art Direction, Best 2D Animation, Best Original Score, Best Sound Design, and the Best Irish Language Award.
As a qualifying festival for the Student Academy Awards, the wins at Animation Dingle provide a significant platform for the Killarney native. Festival Director Maurice Galway noted the high standard of work on display, highlighting the creativity of emerging artists currently shaping the future of Irish storytelling.
Muireann’s achievement follows a period of significant artistic success for Killarney natives on the global stage, including recent Academy Award recognition for actress Jessie Buckley. This latest success at one of Europe’s leading animation festivals marks a major milestone for the Lawlor’s Cross animator as she enters the professional industry.

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Soul legend Billy Ocean announced for Gleneagle Arena

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Soul legend Billy Ocean announced for Gleneagle Arena


Music icon Billy Ocean is set to perform at the Gleneagle Arena, Killarney, on Thursday, September 17. One of Britain’s most successful recording artists, the singer brings a career spanning decades and a catalogue of global hits to the local stage.

With over 30 million records sold worldwide, Ocean is best known for a string of number-one tracks and timeless pop classics. Fans can expect a set-list featuring staples such as ‘Caribbean Queen (No More Love On The Run)’, ‘Red Light Spells Danger’, ‘Love Really Hurts Without You’, and the chart-topping ‘When The Going Gets Tough, The Tough Get Going’.
His contribution to the industry was formally recognised in 2020 when he was awarded an MBE for services to music. His other major accolades include a Grammy Award, an Ivor Novello, and a MOBO Lifetime Achievement Award. His return to the live circuit has been met with critical acclaim, with his performances noted for maintaining the energy and vocal strength of his early career.
Tickets for the Killarney show are priced from €59.85. They go on official sale this Friday, 27 March, at 10 am. Bookings can be made through the venue website at www.gleneaglearena.ie or via the box office.

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