Limerick City and County Council has been awarded accreditation to the WHO European Healthy Cities and Counties Network, an initiative underscoring Limerick’s commitment to promoting health and wellbeing for all of its residents.
The award was presented at the recent WHO European Healthy Cities Annual Conference which took place in Bursa, Türkiye and was attended by a small delegation from Limerick City and County Council, led by Mayor of Limerick, John Moran.
The theme of the three day conference was ‘Resilient Healthy Cities: Creating Sustainable Urban Futures for All.’
The accreditation further affirms Limerick’s dedication to the pivotal role of local Government in improving health outcomes and addressing the broader determinants of health.
Limerick City and County Council’s priorities as a designated healthy city and county will include:
- Investing in the people who make up our city and county
- Designing places that improve health and wellbeing
- Promoting participation and partnerships for health and wellbeing
- Advancing community prosperity and access to goods and services
- Fostering safe and inclusive communities
- Protecting the planet from degradation
Mayor of Limerick, John Moran, said:
“I was delighted to receive in person in Türkiye Limerick’s accreditation into the WHO European Cities and Counties Network on behalf of our city and county. This achievement reflects the hard work of our communities and staff in Limerick City and County Council who are, individually and collectively, dedicated to creating a healthier Limerick for all.
“Central to our vision is the ‘More Healthy Limerick’ pillar of the More for Limerick Mayoral Programme. This will guide our efforts to improve public health, promote active lifestyles and foster social inclusion right across Limerick. We want to make sure everything we do or do not do is tested through the lens of its impact on the health of our residents.”
The Healthy Cities Network, initiated by the WHO in 1987, emphasises the critical role of local governments in health and sustainable development.
The programme has grown to include National Networks in 20 countries within the WHO European Region, connecting over 1,800 cities, counties, and towns. The National Healthy Cities and Counties of Ireland Network, accredited by the WHO in 2016, aims to support Local Authorities in implementing the Healthy Ireland Framework.
Príomh Chomhairleoir, Cllr Dan McSweeney, commented:
“I am proud that Limerick has earned recognition from the WHO European Cities and Counties Network. This achievement demonstrates our commitment to public health and community wellbeing. We will continue to work together to create a healthier, more inclusive environment where all residents can prosper and feel supported."
Director General at Limerick City and County Council, Dr Pat Daly, added:
“Limerick’s accreditation by the WHO European Cities and Counties Network highlights our collective dedication to developing a Limerick that has health at its centre. This international recognition will continue to motivate us to strengthen collaborative efforts and promote healthier lifestyles across the city and county.”
Olivia O’Brien, Healthy Ireland – Limerick Coordinator, Limerick City and County Council commented:
“We are thrilled with Limerick’s recognition by the WHO European Cities and Counties Network. It reflects our shared commitment to promoting health and wellbeing across the community. Together, we will continue to develop initiatives that support a healthier, happier Limerick.”
Benefits of Accreditation
Healthy cities and counties are committed to delivering benefits for both people and the planet. They engage all communities in the pursuit of peace and prosperity, tackle inequalities, and promote good governance and leadership for health and well-being. Innovation, knowledge sharing, and health diplomacy are key values nurtured in healthy cities.
Limerick’s successful application to the WHO European Healthy Cities And Counties Network has been developed with consideration of the Local Economic and Community Plan (LECP) 2023–2028 and the More for Limerick Mayoral Programme 2024–2029.