Working group helps Killarney to keep its purple flag flying high

THE old adage ‘you reap what you sow’ sure is a fitting one for the hardworking and busy members of Killarney’s ‘Purple Flag Working Group’ who once again succeeded in restoring the town’s purple flag status.

Killarney is one of only 18 centres nationwide to be awarded a Purple Flag, which is awarded to towns and cities deemed ‘gold standard’ as an ‘Early Night Time Entertainment’ destination from 5pm to 5am and must be considered ‘vibrant’ and ‘well-maintained’ locations.

The Killarney Purple Flag Group were kept busy throughout the summer in advance of the assessors’ visit in August to check out the town’s progress since its initial accreditation back in 2014. But once again Killarney stepped up to the mark and retained its Purple Flag status following a full assessment of its night-time economy which it passed with flying colours.

Paul O’Neill is chairman of the Purple Flag Working Group and he outlined how the reward is very much down to team effort within the business and wider community.

“There really was a fantastic buy-in from the whole town during the adjudication. I have to thank everyone that helped make it a successful examination,” said Paul.

“The assessors received a warm Killarney welcome wherever they went and management and staff were knowledgeable and informative. We have a few little areas to work on for future improvement, but that’s something to work towards.

“The assessors were particularly impressed with Killarney House and Gardens and remarked that it will be a major asset in offering a variety of evening services. It is another feather in the cap for the town and reinforces what we already know, that Killarney provides facilities, attractions and a unique atmosphere to be enjoyed by locals and visitors alike,” he added.

The annual Purple Flag weekend takes place from October 7 to 9 and will feature a family fun day in the town centre. This is a big celebration for Killarney and everyone is invited.