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Rough sleeper concerns in town centre – Cllr Donal Grady

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By Sean Moriarty

 

Killarney traders are growing concerned at the increasing number of homeless people sleeping rough in the town centre.

They say there is a growing number of “professional” rough sleepers after appearing in the town centre in recent weeks and traders say these people “are following the crowds” as a result of a lack of footfall in larger cities and the increased demand for staycation style holidays.

The traders feel Killarney’s good name as a tourist destination is at risk unless something is done about it.

Local business sources have told the Killarney Advertiser that the problem is particularly bad in the College Square area and that several people are sleeping every night in the archway that leads off Plunkett St to Glebe Lane.

Cllr Donal Grady raised the issue at yesterday’s (Thursday) Killarney Municipal District meeting.

“Beggars have come in,” he told the meeting. “Plunkett St is a disgrace.”

Killarney Gardai said the public needs to be aware of what is legal and illegal but that they will investigate anti-social behaviour or other criminal acts.

“It is not an offence to be homeless,” Superintendent Flor Murphy told the Killarney Advertiser. “Begging, in certain circumstances, is not illegal either. It is illegal near ATM machines and shopfronts, but the public need to be aware what is legal and illegal. We will investigate anti-social behaviour but homelessness is not a policing issue – it is a matter for other agencies. The numbers are very small compared to other urban centres.”

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Overnight water restrictions in Greater Killarney

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Overnight water restrictions in Greater Killarney

Uisce Éireann has introduced overnight water restrictions across parts of Greater Killarney to help reservoir levels recover during the current spell of warm weather.

The restrictions will take effect tonight from 9pm until 7am tomorrow morning. Areas affected include Aghadoe, Beaufort, and Listry on the Mid-Kerry Water Supply Scheme.

Increased demand during the warm weather has meant treated water is being used faster than it can be produced. Uisce Éireann stated that the nighttime shut-offs are necessary to protect the daytime supply for homes, businesses, and essential services.

Operations manager Eoin O’Connell urged local residents and businesses to conserve water where possible:

“Nighttime restrictions are being implemented to support treated reservoir recovery and maintain daytime supply. Conserving water will help protect resources and maintain supply for all. When there is an increase in temperatures it leads to a rise in demand for water. Water is a hugely precious resource, and it is important to conserve water.”

Uisce Éireann is monitoring water levels daily and will conduct a further operational assessment later this week.

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West End and Great Southern team up for theatre experience

A powerful production of one of Ireland’s most celebrated contemporary plays is coming to the Killarney stage this month. In an exciting joint venture, the West End House School of […]

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A powerful production of one of Ireland’s most celebrated contemporary plays is coming to the Killarney stage this month.
In an exciting joint venture, the West End House School of Arts has partnered with the Great Southern Killarney to offer audiences an unrivaled theatre experience.

The West End Players Ensemble will present By the Bog of Cats, Marina Carr’s haunting and critically acclaimed masterpiece, on Wednesday, July 29 and Thursday, July 30 at 8:00pm at the town centre hotel.

Charlie Hughes, the show’s director and Head Tutor at West End House School of Arts, expressed great pride in the milestone, stating he is “so proud that our five years in operation here in Killarney have been able to support and develop such talented local actors to stage this production”.
Set against the stark beauty of the Irish midlands, the compelling drama tells the unforgettable story of Hester Swane, a fiercely independent woman determined to hold on to her home, her daughter, and her place in the world. Rich in Irish folklore, dark humour, and unforgettable characters, Carr’s masterpiece explores themes of love, betrayal, identity, and the enduring pull of the past, offering an unflinching portrait of Irish society.
Maria O’Meara, Director of Rooms at Great Southern Killarney, welcomed the production, saying, “Welcoming such a gripping and powerful production into the hotel is a wonderful way to celebrate creativity and culture. Creating memorable experiences has always been at the heart of the Great Southern Killarney, and we are proud to host an evening that brings people together through the arts.”
Theatregoers can enjoy an exclusive pre-theatre dining experience. A special menu will be available at the five-star Great Southern Hotel’s Arbor Restaurant for €55 per person. Dining reservations can be secured in advance by calling 086 663 8000 or by emailing events@greatsouthernkillarney.com.
The play runs for two hours, including a brief intermission, and is suitable for audiences aged 16 and over. Show tickets must be booked in advance online via Eventbrite at https://bythebogofcats.eventbrite.com

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