WHAT extra monies will be afforded to other towns in the Adare/Rathkeale district to improve amenities, facilities, and capital infrastructure in preparation for the Ryder Cup?
This was the question on Fine Gael councillor Adam Teskey’s mind at the March monthly meeting of the district.
In January last year, the same councillor suggested there was unfair expectation that “all the bills are going to be paid” on the back of the Ryder Cup in Adare.
“That expectation needs to be quashed and brought into the realisation that there isn’t an open cheque book,” he said at the time.
In May 2025, Cllr Teskey called for the Ardagh Chalice to be returned to its home area in County Limerick for the Ryder Cup. Last October, he quizzed the Council over speculation around 18 roundabouts in the area being converted into ‘mini putting greens’ in advance of Ryder Cup 2027 at a supposed cost of €1million.
The local authority confirmed at the time that discussions were taking place on a “creative proposal to enhance 18 Limerick roundabouts to promote Limerick as a golfing destination”, but they were “entirely separate from the Ryder Cup”. It is understood the move would involve corporate sponsorship, as opposed to public funds.
At last month’s Adare/Rathkeale meeting, the Fine Gael man was acting on speculation when he quizzed Limerick Council about the alleged “imminent closure of Adare Garda Station” ahead of Ryder Cup 2027. Before the close of the same meeting, Council members received Garda confirmation that there was no such plan.
This month, he wanted to know what extra monies will go to other towns in the Adare/Rathkeale district ahead of the Ryder Cup, following a notice of motion on the matter.
In response, the Council’s Director of Adare/Rathkeale district, Vincent Murray, reminded Cllr Teskey that the Ryder Cup is a national/international event led by the Government. Limerick City and County Council’s role is limited, Mr Murray explained.
Council members were also advised that funding commitments to date include the bypass, which will deliver benefits beyond Adare. The proposed cruise ships to Foynes, if confirmed, would also have a significant impact on Foynes and its hinterland, the Council pointed out.
The other benefits to county towns in West Limerick outlined to councillors in the area included Tidy Towns initiatives and advanced planting in advance of the Ryder Cup, as well as economic benefits at national, regional, county, and municipal district levels such as hospitality and private rentals.
Mr Murray also stated that engagement is ongoing with the Department of Tourism, Culture, and Sport regarding funding. Discussions too are underway with Transport Infrastructure Ireland and the National Transport Authority regarding road improvements around Adare.
“Finally, as we are all aware, there is no additional national funding beyond what has already been announced, budgetary provisions by LCCC for 2027 will require discussion with the Mayor and councillors, as previously outlined at municipal district briefings,” he concluded.