The Limerick Mayoral Programme: “More for Limerick 2024-2029”

The introduction of a directly elected executive Mayor for Limerick City and County with the election of Mayor John Moran in June 2024 marks one of the most critical reforms to public management in Ireland since the foundation of the State over a centenary ago. For the first time local electors in Ireland got to choose the person directly responsible for over 1,100 public services being delivered across the City and County of Limerick. A key aspect of the role is to lead out on delivery of a Mayoral Programme.

The “More for Limerick 2024-2029” Mayoral Programme outlines an ambitious, forward-thinking vision for Limerick under the leadership of Ireland’s first Directly Elected Mayor. Rooted in three foundational pillars—A More Liveable Limerick,A More Prosperous Limerick, and A More Healthy Limerick—the Mayoral plan includes 27 priority areas and over 400 actionable tasks. It is designed to transform Limerick into a city and region that prioritises inclusivity, innovation, sustainability, and quality of life.

The programme serves as both a blueprint for Limerick’s growth and a model of strategic governance that could inspire Mayors worldwide.

Key pillars and priority areas

A More Liveable Limerick

Focused on creating a city that residents and visitors can call home with pride, this pillar comprises eight priority areas:

1. More Affordable Housing: Emphasising the delivery of accessible housing, including support for first-time buyers and redevelopment of vacant and derelict sites.
2. A Safer, More Community-Driven Limerick: Prioritising crime reduction, enhanced community facilities, and improved public safety measures.
3. More Culture, Visual & Performing Arts: Building on Limerick’s creative strengths to further develop the city as a cultural hub.
4. More People-Centred Public Realm: Advocating for high-quality urban design that prioritises pedestrians and cyclists.
5. More Options for Mobility: Supporting active travel infrastructure and public transportation enhancements.
6. A More Fun Limerick: Promoting leisure and recreational activities through festivals, sports, and community events. 

A More Prosperous Limerick

Limerick’s economic future is a major focus of this programme, addressed through 15 diverse priority areas:

1. Offshore Wind Opportunity: Highlights the Shannon Estuary’s potential as a hub for renewable energy, aiming to generate economic growth and green jobs.
2. SME and Indigenous Business Support: Introduces targeted support for small businesses, fostering innovation and resilience.
3. Tourism: Builds on Limerick’s cultural and natural assets to boost its global tourism appeal, with flagship events like the Ryder Cup.
4. Creative Industries: Promotes sectors such as music, design, and fashion, reinforcing Limerick’s cultural and economic identity.
5. Retail, Manufacturing, and Agri-Food Sectors: Focuses on reinvigorating these traditional pillars of Limerick’s economy. 

A More Healthy Limerick

Addressing health inequality and promoting public well-being, this pillar includes four priority areas:

1. Public Health Infrastructure: Pushes for improved access to healthcare through better facilities and services.
2. Mental Health Initiatives: Focuses on community-based programmes, peer support networks, and innovative approaches like VR therapy.
3. Preventative Health Measures: Encourages healthier lifestyles through initiatives in schools, workplaces, and public spaces.
4. Environmental Health: Aligns public health improvements with sustainability goals, such as better water quality, air quality, and urban green spaces. 

A Governance Model for Effective Delivery

The success of the Limerick Mayoral Programme lies in its governance structure. The model is designed to ensure accountability, efficiency, and adaptability:

• The Mayor provides strategic leadership, championing the vision across all sectors.
• The Director General of the City and County Council oversees the alignment of organisational resources with the programmes objectives.
• The Programme Sponsor and Programme Manager drive the programme’s implementation, ensuring that initiatives remain on track.
• Priority Leaders—senior council staff—are assigned to each priority area, providing ownership and accountability. 

This governance model is further strengthened by the Limerick Mayoral Advisory and Implementation Committee, comprising stakeholders across the community. The committee meets regularly to discuss progress, address challenges, and ensure the programme remains responsive to emerging needs.

Alignment with Broader Policies

The Mayoral Programme aligns with Ireland’s Project Ireland 2040, the National Planning Framework, and the Southern Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy (RSES), while also incorporating the principles of the EU’sGreen Deal, Urban Agenda, and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Furthermore, it adheres to the Public Sector Equality and Human Rights Duty, ensuring that its actions promote equity, prevent discrimination, and uphold human rights.

Community-Centric Approach

Consultation played an important role in shaping the programme. Workshops with council executives, staff, and community representatives provided valuable insights into the region’s needs and aspirations. The programme’s emphasis on community-led development—such as enhanced community facilities in rural villages like Shanagolden and Rathkeale—ensures that no area is left behind.

Delivering More for Limerick

The “More for Limerick 2024-2029” Programme actions will be incorporated into Limerick City and County Council’s Corporate Plan 2024-2029, which serves as a strategic framework linking governance, organisational performance, and accountability.

Quarterly updates will provide transparency on the programme’s progress as funding becomes available and projects are initiated. By setting clear timelines and encouraging collaboration across all sectors, the programme is positioned to deliver transformation.

A Global Example of Strategic Leadership

The “More for Limerick” Programme offers a replicable model of governance and planning that could inspire Mayors worldwide. It balances bold, long-term aspirations with practical, actionable steps, ensuring that progress is measurable and inclusive.

With its emphasis on innovation, equity, and sustainability, this programme redefines what is possible for regional governance in the 21st century. As Limerick embarks on this ambitious journey, it sets a benchmark for cities and regions around the world to aspire to.