LIMERICK communities were the big winners at the all-Ireland Pride of Place community awards, held on Shannonside this past weekend in Limerick’s Strand Hotel.
Local-based community groups were honoured at the 23rd edition of the popular awards, hosted this year by Limerick City and County Council – who was awarded the Council Community Engagement Award on the night for its ongoing work to improve the city and county.
Thomondgate Residents Association took top spot in the Urban Neighbourhood/Village Under 3000 category, with judges praising their efforts to create a cohesive community.
Elsewhere, Templeglantine came runner-up in the Town with a Population between 1000 and 2000 category – losing out to Piltown Community Group in Kilkenny. Also taking a runner-up place was The Local Hub, Glenbrohane, in the Community Wellbeing Initiative category.
Paying tribute to the communities who were honoured on the evening, Mayor of Limerick John Moran said that “Limerick has been proud to welcome the IPB Pride of Place Awards”.
“These awards are a celebration of community spirit and collaboration and they shine a light on the people and projects that make our towns and villages into the places we call home.”
The Mayor said that “for Limerick to host this event is a testament to the resilience and creativity of our communities, with plenty of success across our city and county in these awards over recent years. We are continuing to build a future rooted in pride, partnership and possibility in Limerick, while thriving on doing things differently.”
Sponsored by IPB Insurance, the Pride of Place competition was initiated 23 years ago though a Co-operation Ireland programme to acknowledge the invaluable work undertaken by volunteers and those involved in local community development.
It has grown into the largest competition recognising community development achievements on the island of Ireland.
Limerick City and County Council director general Dr Pat Daly deemed it a tremendous honour to host the IPB Pride of Place Awards in Limerick.
“Heartfelt congratulations to all of the winners and nominees for their remarkable dedication and creativity in enhancing the places we call home. Your efforts strengthen local pride, foster connection, and make Limerick and Ireland a better place for everyone.”