The designation of Limerick as the first National City of Culture in 2014 has been described as an important catalyst to enhance the image of the city. The aim of the initiative is to deliver a programme of cultural events for one year, which, it is hoped, will also have a longer-term positive impact.
As part of this initiative, launched by Minister for Arts and Heritage Jimmy Deenihan, a city in Ireland will be selected and designated as a National City of Culture every two years, with the designation itself lasting one calendar year.
Limerick city arts officer Sheila Deegan has warmly welcomed the announcement for Limerick and said culture, while not a panacea to all problems, could deliver economic and social objectives, improve the urban image, assist regeneration and promote social inclusion.
It is hoped the awarding of this status to Limerick will provide a significant platform in Limerick’s objective of securing European Capital of Culture status in 2020.
Limerick city and county councils will now set about establishing a dedicated team to develop, market and deliver a high-quality programme of events and initiatives leading to the City of Culture year of 2014.