Tourist town needs more than leprechauns

RECENTLY I have become aware of a trend in Killarney that, for me at least, rings warning bells about its future as a destination for the discerning tourist.

Has anyone else noticed how many small, distinctive retailers have closed their doors in recent weeks?

Now I don’t profess to be a David McWilliams, and I don’t have any formal education in economics or town planning, but it strikes me that globalisation must have a part to play in this because, while these small retailers are forced to close their doors and lay off staff, some of the larger retailers are thriving and now occupy more retail space than ever in the town.