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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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Bid to host European Presidency summit meetings gathers pace

Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Tourism, Michael Cahill TD, has highlighted Killarney’s suitability to host summit meetings of international Government Ministers during Ireland’s six-month European Presidency tenure in 2026. Deputy Cahill […]

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Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Tourism, Michael Cahill TD, has highlighted Killarney’s suitability to host summit meetings of international Government Ministers during Ireland’s six-month European Presidency tenure in 2026.

Deputy Cahill believes Kerry’s available accommodation, food, and conference facilities are “second to none,” with Killarney as the central location.
“Visitors from every corner of the earth have been coming to Kerry for centuries now, to experience its beauty and serenity and have returned on many occasions because of the fabulous time they have enjoyed during their stay here,” said Deputy Cahill. “Where else would you want to bring the senior Government Ministers of all of our EU counterpart states, to experience Ireland, its customs and heritage?”
The Rossbeigh TD outlined various attractions available for visitors during downtime: “During their downtime, they can visit the Blaskets and Slea Head, Sceilg Mhichíl and the Ring of Kerry, Killarney’s Lakes, Gap of Dunloe, National Park and Sliabh Luachra, all of our glorious beaches from Ballybunion to Rossbeigh, Kells to Ventry, Whitestrand to Inch, Ballinskelligs to Cromane, Waterville to Derrynane.” He also cited Kerry’s golf courses, Listowel Writers Week, the Rose of Tralee, and Puck Fair as potential experiences.
Deputy Cahill confirmed he has raised this matter with An Taoiseach, Micheál Martin; An Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Simon Harris; and Minister of State for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne.
“If Killarney’s bid is successful in bringing the Heads of State to our county for meetings, conferences and functions, it will be a massive boost to the local economy in Killarney and also throughout the county,” added Cahill.”Iwill continue to push in the coming months for Killarney and Kerry to be included as bases for the rounds of meetings that are to take place from July 1 to December 312026.”

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Triathlon Club launches Tuesday lake swim series

Killarney Triathlon Club has launched a new Tuesday evening swim series on the lakes, welcoming swimmers of all abilities. The weekly club swim takes place at 7PM at Dundag Beach […]

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Killarney Triathlon Club has launched a new Tuesday evening swim series on the lakes, welcoming swimmers of all abilities.

The weekly club swim takes place at 7PM at Dundag Beach and will run from June to September.
The series is designed to be a social and fitness-focused session. Staggered start times based on handicap levels will be implemented to ensure a competitive experience for all participants.
Caitriona Shanahan of Killarney Triathlon Club said: “Whether you’re looking to improve your fitness, take on a new challenge, or simply enjoy the beautiful surroundings with a supportive community, dive in and join us. The event is suitable for all levels and safety first at all times.”
Those interested in swimming, volunteering, or learning more about the club are invited to attend the sessions at Dundag Beach on Tuesday evenings or contact the club for further information.

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