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KINVARA COMMUNITY COUNCIL

Meeting at 8pm 18th June 2025

In Kinvara Community Centre

AGENDA

1. Apologies

2. Minutes of last meeting

3. Matters arising

4. Correspondence

5. Paul Killilea Update

6. Community Transport Study

7. Community Hub plan

8. Dunguaire Castle

9. Merriman Hotel

10. Date of next meeting: 17th September at 8pm

The Community Council continues to advocate on behalf of the community to have the Merriman Hotel returned to tourist accommodation.  

We have written to the Minister of Justice on 8 May, 25 May and 5 June concerning various matters associated with the hotel, including its designation, planning, and contract procurement. To date, we have not received a reply. However, Albert Dolan TD, having written to the Taoiseach on our behalf on 20^th March has received the following reply:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1y-Oqugluh13mwOqbr11pTAl5-_BkmIPA/view?usp=sharing

We have registered our dissatisfaction with the content of the letter, as it relies on an interpretation of the Government policy (i.e. not in public use) that was not part of the text of the original policy ‘not to use the sole hotel in a village’. We have also pointed out that the Merriman Hotel remains officially registered with Fáilte Ireland, is defined by Galway County Council Planning Department as hotel, and continues to renew its liquor licence. It is widely promoted online and is regarded as one of the most well-known hotels on the Wild Atlantic Way.

We have also raised concerns about the Community Engagement Team and their failure to engage before the contract was issued and on their performance since. They have failed to contact community representatives, school leadership, healthcare providers, or local transport services. Also, our Ukrainian community have now been given notice to quit the Merriman Hotel on 30^th June. The Community Engagement Team have not assisted these refugees in sourcing alternative local accommodation.

These matters will be discussed at the Community Council Meeting on 18^th June, 8 pm in the Community Centre.

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