Killarney has celebrated its official recognition as an Autism Friendly Town, a designation awarded in partnership with national autism charity AsIAm.
Pictures: Don MacMonagle
Killarney is only the third town in Ireland, along with Clonakilty and Maynooth, to achieve the important status and the event in the Killarney Plaza Hotel on Thursday evening brought together a wide array of community members, including local business leaders, families and advocates, to recognise the collective efforts that have made Killarney a more inclusive and supportive environment for autistic people.
Adam Harris, CEO and founder of AsIAm, attended the event and praised the town’s commitment to inclusion.
“It is a testament to what can be achieved when communities come together to embrace and understand neurodiversity. Killarney is leading the way in creating a society where everyone feels they belong,” he said.
The celebration honoured over 30 local champion businesses that have completed training and made meaningful changes to their environments and practices, ensuring that people with autism and their families feel welcome and supported.
Representatives from the autistic community also shared their experiences, highlighting the positive impact of the town’s initiatives and the importance of continued education, acceptance and collaboration.
Jessica O’Connor, Chairperson, Autism Friendly Killarney Committee, remarked: “This milestone represents just the beginning of Killarney’s journey in building an inclusive society where everyone, regardless of neurodiversity, can participate fully in community life.”
