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Cllr Toireasa Ferris.
THE Council is to look into attaining a flag which signals Tralee is a safe place to socialise and shop in the evening and at night.
Cllr Toireasa Ferris (SF) put forward the motion at the Tralee Municipal District meeting on Monday, that the Council would progress plans to achieve ‘Purple Flag’ status for Tralee town centre.
The Purple Flag is an international accreditation awarded to city and town centres that meet or surpass the standards of excellence in managing the evening and night-time economy.
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They are described as the gold standard for night-time destinations and awardees must meet 30 different criteria, including minimum thresholds of decreasing crime statistics, appropriate transport, a vibrant appeal, a stimulating destination and a strong partnership.
Cllr Ferris said she came up with the idea after speaking to councillors from Galway who noticed a marked improvement in the reputation of the city after attaining the Purple Flag.
“In Galway there was a huge unity between the businesses, the community and the council and they have successfully managed to retain that Purple Flag. Given the history of this town, it would be no harm to have unity between the various parties there which would be hugely beneficial,” she said.
Cllr Ferris said Killarney has successfully attained the flag and it would be helpful to combat any negative attitudes towards Tralee if the town was to follow suit.
“Tralee is like any other big town in the country. It has its issues but no more or less than anywhere else. It’s a great town with great nightlife,” she said.
Cllr Finucane seconded the motion and said visitors to Tralee need to feel confident and safe walking through town.
“[Visitors] need to have reassurance that the town is a safe place to socialise. I’d like to get an update with the policing committee. The one thing that gives confidence is a police presence. I know that there has been an increase in resources of about five gardaí, but with retirements, we’re not keeping pace,” he said.
Cllr Finucane said he would like to get a meeting with the gardai to find out what their requirements are as regards manpower.
Director of Services, John Breen, who worked with Killarney businesses to attain the Purple Flag there, said it was a very worthwhile effort with everybody working together – Gardaí, the Council and business owners – to create a great, safe atmosphere for all ages.
He said the Council would investigate and come back to members at the September meeting.
