Editorial: Kilkenny must protect vital tourist offering, while helping those in need

Many visitors to Kilkenny and indeed locals will have fond memories of the Kilkenny Tourist Hostel, the red-doored Georgian building on Parliament Street that has provided accommodation to all-comers to the city for years.

It offered dozens of beds at a good price, even in recent years when the price of hostel beds steadily crept up around Ireland due to demand and scarcity. It is now closed.

The hostel was very popular with groups and backpackers because of its central location and affordable rates. It was always a busy spot, particularly during the summer months, with a great mix of visitors looking to come in and explore the Marble City’s sights — staying right in the middle of the Medieval Mile. It was also a vibrant hub, where local businesses and events were promoted to those staying there. It is not the only local hostel to close this year, and cumulatively will be a loss.

Perhaps now is the time for the powers-that-be to prepare a medium or long-term strategy to address how we can best house our new communities, including Ukrainian refugees and those seeking protection under IPAS. Of course, we have a duty to help and offer shelter to those fleeing conflict and persecution.

However, we must also protect our interests, and this certainly includes not hurting the golden goose for our local economy — tourism. If local hostels and hotels withdraw from accommodating tourists, and the city sees further losses of hospitality beds, it will pose a challenge for us going forward. 

Contracts are in place for 14 different locations in Kilkenny to accommodate Ukrainian refugees, while two locations are in use for IPAS applicants, with more likely to follow. There’s no avoiding our obligations under international law and agreements.  How we go about meeting those obligations without damaging our hospitality offering needs careful thought. Striking a balance will be key.

Tourism is our biggest employer here. If the tourists have nowhere to stay, or the few places left become eye-wateringly expensive due to scarcity, visitors will vote with their feet.