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When Roddy met Paddy!

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It was a case of the apprentice meets the master when Killarney-based author, Paddy Osborne, met fellow Dub, Roddy Doyle last week.

Roddy was at Marconi House, home to Today FM and Newstalk, to record an interview and Paddy was invited along.

Paddy’s debut novel 'Baxter’s Boys' is a darkly comic tale about a neglected Dublin inner-city community and a dysfunctional pub football team so it’s easy to see why so many people make the comparison to Doyle’s work.

“I’ve been a massive fan since reading 'The Commitments' in 1990, so it was nice to get the chance to chat and to pick his brains," Paddy said.

“I was chuffed when the Killarney Advertiser called me "Killarney’s answer to Roddy Doyle". 'Baxter’s Boys' is similar to the Barrytown Trilogy (The Commitments, The Snapper and The Van) and they’re the kind of novels I love to read. And although the cover of my book might suggest that it’s just for men, this couldn’t be further from the truth,” Paddy said. “The story deals with a number of difficult issues that everyone can relate to regardless of gender. I’ve had tremendous feedback from a lot of women readers too.”

'Baxter’s Boys' is available to borrow from over 40 libraries nationwide including Killarney, something Paddy is particularly proud of.

“It’s a bit surreal to be honest to see a book you’ve written in your local library, but I’m absolutely delighted. I think it would also make a great Christmas present,” he added.

Paddy is currently working on his second novel as well as a screenplay for a new feature film with Les Martin, star and writer of ‘Be Good Or Be Gone’.

“We started to write the script during lockdown and without giving too much away it’s about a very tough and topical subject so we’d be hoping that it stirs enough interest to get funding,” said Paddy.

'Baxter’s Boys' is on sale in Eason and O’Connor’s in Killarney as well as a number of other bookshops nationwide.

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Public realm works begin on Main Street and Kenmare Place

Repair works for the Killarney Public Realm project officially commenced on Monday, April 20, following approval from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. This phase of the project, […]

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Repair works for the Killarney Public Realm project officially commenced on Monday, April 20, following approval from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.

This phase of the project, funded by the URDF, focuses on enhancing the streetscape and accessibility of both Main Street and Kenmare Place.
To allow the appointed contractors to carry out the investment safely, a section of the R-878 on Main Street, stretching from Kenmare Place to Plunkett Street, is now closed to traffic. This first period of construction is scheduled to run from April 20 until July 3.
Recognising the importance of the tourism season, the council has confirmed the street will fully reopen from July 4 to October 4 to accommodate peak summer traffic. Following this break, works will resume for a second period starting October 5 and running until December 4.
While vehicle diversions are in place, pedestrian access to all businesses and emergency service access will be maintained throughout the construction phases. Kerry County Council stated that these works are part of a wider programme to improve the safety and quality of the town centre and has thanked the public and local business owners for their cooperation during these essential improvements.

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Jordan Lee selected for Ireland’s Para Athletics relay team

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Jordan Lee selected for Ireland’s Para Athletics relay team


Killarney Valley AC has celebrated another historic milestone following the selection of international Paralympic athlete Jordan Lee for Team Ireland’s first-ever Para Athletics 4x100m Universal Relay squad.


The selection marks a landmark step for Irish Para Athletics, with the newly formed team focusing its long-term sights on the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympic Games. Jordan, a high-jump specialist, has recently added the shot putt to his competitive disciplines, and his performance through recent trials secured his place in this groundbreaking relay unit.
The Universal Relay is a unique event in Para Athletics, featuring athletes from different impairment groups competing together. Everyone at KVAC and across the town has extended their best wishes to Jordan as he prepares to represent Ireland on the global stage.

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