One of the oldest provincial newspapers in the country is to start publishing community news for Polish people in an attempt to cater for the growing population of Poles living in the mid-west region.
The weekend edition of the Limerick Leader, founded in the late 18th century, will include community notes for the local Polish community, estimated to be 1,000 strong, in both English and Polish.
The idea was conceived by Limerick businessman Mr Pat O'Sullivan, chairman of the Irish-Polish Cultural and Business Association, and by Polish women Ms Beata Malkowsak and Ms Katarzyna Lamasz both of whom moved to Limerick last year.
The aim of the venture is to "bring the Polish community in the area together and to integrate them with the Irish people".
"I think the two peoples are quite similar in their sense of humour and mentality. The history is similar with independence and struggles that went on for ages. There is also the Catholic tradition in both countries," said Ms Malkowsak.
The organisers of the Limerick St Patrick's Day Parade are also planning to include a Polish float in next month's festivities and a Polish Mass is also planned.