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By Michelle Crean

The new facilities at Killarney Sports and Leisure Centre’s gym, which includes new flooring and equipment, was officially opened last weekend.

Minister of State for Transport, Tourism and Sport Brendan Griffin TD was on hand to do the honours at the new Strength and Conditioning Area on Saturday morning.

The upgrade will provide much needed opportunities for individuals who may need rehabilitation, along with providing modern equipment for people to continue with their own personal journey to physical and mental well-being. The open plan layout also allows for accessibility for all. To celebrate the opening, the centre held free taster class sessions on the new equipment all weekend.

Minister Griffin, who provided funding under the Sports Capital Grant, acknowledged the important part played by sport in promoting health and wellbeing.

“It is great to see the facility so busy with groups such as the Kerry Ladies football team and badminton teams using the facility. There is huge social and community benefit to facilities such as these.”

Cathaoirleach of Killarney Municipal District, Cllr John Sheahan added that the new facilities will help clubs and organisations to develop and grow.

“When looking at a facility like this we need to remember not alone is it a facility that has a pool and a gym but it is a facility used by swim clubs, basketball clubs, badminton clubs and by having top class facilities it enables these clubs and organisations to develop and grow.”

Councillor Donal Grady, who is Director of the Killarney Sports and Leisure Centre, acknowledged the support of the Minister along with Kerry County Council in providing matching grant funding.