Elected Killarney councillors will write to the HSE, LDA and Health Minister for an update on the future use of St Finian’s.
It follows a motion from Cathaoirleach of Killarney MD, Maura Healy-Rae at the recent Municipal District meeting.
She asked the council for clarity on engagement and progress between the local authority, HSE and Land Development Agency in relation to the site.
In response Kerry County Council advised that it’s CEO, Fearghal Reidy, has contacted the HSE directly with a view to discussing a number of properties in Killarney, and their response is awaited.
Independent councillor, Maura Healy-Rae responded saying elected members would like some guidance, as the HSE had previously indicated a temporary primary care centre would be located at St Finian’s.
She said the building itself has several purposes, while the land could be significant in the provision of affordable housing.
Cllr Healy-Rae added that action is needed for the site, not just Ministers’ coming to Killarney for a picture with the building, to make it appear like something will be done.
The motion was seconded by independent councillor, Brendan Cronin, who said there’s a great comparison with what could be done with the site.
He referenced the development of the St Kevin’s site in Cork, which burnt down in 2017; and is being redeveloped with over 250 homes.
Cllr Cronin said the council has made no headway in the past 13 years or so with the St Finian’s site, and now they’re completely hamstrung.
He said clarity is needed to discover can the land be developed and the building rejuvenated.
