Author: Eilish

We are particularly disheartened by the Government’s recent decision to cease the accommodation of Ukrainian families in the Merriman Hotel by July 4th. Many of these families have become deeply integrated into the Kinvara community, with children attending local schools, parents contributing through part-time work, and meaningful social bonds having been formed. The Council is now appealing to the public for offers of local accommodation to support a small number of these families during this uncertain transition period. A judicial review application, sponsored by members of the local community, has been formally submitted to the High Court. A hearing is scheduled for June 23rd to determine whether the case will proceed to a full hearing.

We urge all involved in the campaign to continue engaging in a respectful, inclusive, and non-partisan manner. This issue must remain focused on the concerns of the Kinvara community and used by external groups with divisive or unrelated agendas. The Council is also encouraging residents to contact their elected TDs to voice their concerns. Constituents are welcome to compose their own messages or use a letter template available from the Community Council office.

KAVA News:        

• 2nd – 10th – Kinvara Plein Air Exhibition. Opens 2nd June at 4pm
• 13th -22nd – Exhibition by Pauline Dunleavy & Liubov Karpova
  • 17th – KAVA Konnect with Robert Kilroy
• 27th – 6th July – Exhibition by Esther Blodau & Sinead O’Connell – Yoga Classess
• Tuesday mornings 9.30 – 10.30 with Kate
• Wednesday Mornings 9.30- 10.30 with Fionnuala
• Tuesday Evenings 18.30 – 19.30 with Sibéal

Set in the heart of one of Ireland’s most captivating landscapes, the festival will shine a spotlight on the Burren’s extraordinary archaeological heritage. This two-day celebration promises a rich programme of talks, demonstrations, family-friendly activities, and hands-on displays offering attendees the chance to unearth the secrets of the past and connect with the deep history that lies beneath the Burren’s limestone surface. On Saturday 21st June, attendees will hear first-hand from some of Ireland’s leading archaeologists about recent and remarkable discoveries in the Burren, all of whom bring decades of research and insights into the ancient people who once called this region home.

On Sunday 22nd June, the focus shifts to experimental archaeology and interactive experiences for all ages. Highlights will include:

• Mill your own flour and see it turned into bread over the stove
• Flint knapping demonstrations,
• Make your own clay pot using ancient coil building techniques
• Investigate displays of replica artefacts and bones
• Witness the timeless art of spinning

For the kids:

• Archaeology-themed drop-in crafts: bracelet making, colouring, jigsaws
• BIG DIG (Book a slot for a small fee!) Experience what it’s like to be an archaeologist by excavating the remains of a Viking house. Uncover Viking treasures and artefacts while learning about our Viking ancestors, all with guidance from qualified archaeologists.

Celebrate the Summer Solstice weekend with us! 

Tickets must be booked in advance: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/burrenbeotrust/1693086

A packed Kinvara Community Centre gathered last night for an important update on the ongoing campaign to restore the Merriman Hotel to commercial use.

Despite invitations, none of the East Galway Oireachtas members attended due to Dáil business. Only one written statement was received—from Louis O’Hara TD, which was read aloud at the meeting.

The Community Council has yet to receive a meaningful response from the Taoiseach, Ministers, or elected representatives regarding why Government policy has been breached—a policy that explicitly states the sole hotel in a village would not be contracted for use as an IPAS centre.

Instead, the government insists the Merriman “is not a hotel.” This raises serious questions:
• If it’s not a hotel, why wasn’t a change-of-use application required?
• Why has it renewed its liquor license for 2025?
• What has a new fire safety certificate not been issued for housing 98 people?
• Were these matters considered in signing the contract with MLC Hotels Limited?

These questions remain unanswered.

The meeting also confirmed that a judicial review application has been lodged in the High Court, with a decision expected by 23rd June. A petition with over 800 Kinvara residents’ signatures accompanied the application.

The Community Council have raised concerns with Galway County Council on potential planning and fire safety breaches, a reply is outstanding.

Particular condemnation was voiced over the decision to displace the Ukrainian families currently housed at the Merriman by 4th July. These families are part of our community, and we appeal for local support in helping them find alternative accommodation in Kinvara.

Several attendees expressed support for people seeking international protection, calling for suitable and dignified accommodation solutions from the government. Finally, a strong appeal was made to keep our campaign respectful and prevent outside groups from using this issue to push divisive agendas.

The message from the community was clear: We expect answers, transparency, and leadership from our elected representatives.