The Government has appointed a senior official to co-ordinate initiatives aimed at addressing social exclusion in the troubled Limerick estate of Moyross.
Mr John Fitzgerald, a former Dublin City Manager, has been asked to work with existing agencies and community groups to identify immediate actions which can be implemented in Moyross to improve social conditions and address issues of criminal behaviour, disorder and social exclusion.
During a visit to Limerick last week Minister for Jusitce Michael McDowell said a "figure of national standing" would be appointed to the role.
Mr Fitzgerald has also been asked to bring forward suggestions about the regeneration of Moyross and other disadvantaged areas of Limerick in the context of the wider strategic development of the Limerick/Shannon Gateway.
Mr. Fitzgerald will report back regularly to the Cabinet Committee on Social Inclusion on the progress being made.