Limerick based community groups were honoured at the all-Ireland Pride of Place community awards on Friday evening at Limerick’s Strand Hotel. (November 7).
The 23rd edition of the popular awards were hosted by Limerick City and County Council - who were also awarded the Council Community Engagement Award on the night for their ongoing work to improve the city and county.
The Judges said the enthusiasm of Limerick City and County Council shown towards their communities made them a worthy winner of the best overall council award.
“Limerick City and County Council has consistently demonstrated its commitment to Pride of Place by presenting exceptionally well-prepared communities to the judges.
“The same pride and passion that is so evident across Limerick’s sporting achievements is equally reflected in the dedication of local communities — supported by council staff and management.
“This is also the second time the Council has hosted the awards, and once again they have done it to an exceptional standard.”
In the main competition, Thomondgate Residents Association took top spot in the Urban Neighbourhood/Village under 3000 Category, with judges praising their efforts to create a cohesive community.
“Through its diverse and impactful activities, the Thomandgate Residents Association has not only improved the physical environment of the area but also fostered a deeper sense of community, remembrance, and resilience.
“Its work stands as an inspiring example of how local effort, creativity, and collaboration can transform a historic urban neighbourhood into a vibrant and welcoming place for all generations.”
Elsewhere, Templeglantine came runner-up in the Town with a Population between 1000 and 2000, Category – losing out to Piltown Community Group in Kilkenny.
Also taking a runner-up place was The Local Hub, Glenbrohane, in the Community Wellbeing Initiative category. The Local Hub lost out to Doohamlet Community Centre in Monaghan.
The awards, hosted by comedian and broadcaster Dermot Whelan, took place in Limerick’s Strand Hotel, with 400 community volunteers in attendance.
Local singer Denis Allen got proceedings underway with a fantastic live performance of ‘Limerick, You’re a Lady’
Sponsored by IPB Insurance, the Pride of Place competition was initiated 23 years ago though a Co-operation Ireland programme to acknowledge the invaluable work undertaken by volunteers and those involved in local community development.
It has grown into the largest competition recognising community development achievements on the island of Ireland.
Paying tribute to the communities who were honoured on the evening, Mayor of Limerick, John Moran, said:
"Limerick has been proud to welcome the IPB Pride of Place Awards. These awards are a celebration of community spirit and collaboration and they shine a light on the people and projects that make our towns and villages into the places we call home.
“For Limerick to host this event is a testament to the resilience and creativity of our communities, with plenty of success across our city and county in these awards over recent years. We are continuing to build a future rooted in pride, partnership and possibility in Limerick, while thriving on doing things differently.”
Cllr Catherine Slattery, Príomh Chomhairleoir, Limerick City and County Council, said:
“The Pride of Place Awards are a powerful celebration of the people who make our communities thrive. We are especially proud to host this year’s event in Limerick and to see local groups like Thomondgate Residents Association, Templeglantine, Foynes Flying Boat Museum and The Local Hub Glenbrohane recognised for their outstanding contributions. These awards honour the spirit of collaboration, inclusion, and pride that defines community life across Ireland.”
Director General, Limerick City and County Council, Dr Pat Daly commented:
“It was a tremendous honour for us to host the IPB Pride of Place Awards here in Limerick and I want to thank IPB, Co-Operation Ireland, the Pride of Place Committee and our own Council Staff who made this event such a success. Heartfelt congratulations to all of the winners and nominees for their remarkable dedication and creativity in enhancing the places we call home. Your efforts strengthen local pride, foster connection, and make Limerick and Ireland a better place for everyone.”
Pride of Place founder and Chairman Tom Dowling said:
“After 23 years of these motivational awards recognising exceptional community endeavour, the judges continue to be inspired and humbled in equal measures, as they hear directly from the nominated communities their story of their pride in their place and the extraordinary work they are doing to ease the path of life for all the people in their place irrespective of date or place of birth, ability or wealth.”
Ian Jeffers, CEO of Co-operation Ireland said:
“For more than two decades, Pride of Place has been a celebration of the people and communities. These awards recognise the strength, resilience and local pride that drives real change at grassroots level.
Their importance goes beyond the ceremony. Pride of Place continues to play a central role in Co-operation Ireland’s wider work to build positive relationships and deepen shared understanding between communities across the island. The ongoing success of the awards is thanks to the volunteers who give so much of themselves to the places they call home.”
John Hogan, Chairman, IPB Insurance said:
“IPB Insurance is proud to sponsor the IPB Pride of Place awards alongside Cooperation Ireland and local authorities north and south. These awards honour the volunteers and communities whose dedication and teamwork make a real difference across the island of Ireland. Their efforts show what can be achieved when we work together with purpose and pride. I encourage everyone to celebrate and support these inspiring groups, and to get involved in building even stronger, more inclusive communities.”
Glenbrohane Local Hub
Glenbrohane, a quaint rural village in Limerick, nestled at the foothills of the Sliabh Riadh Mountain. Just 3km from the main route connecting Limerick City and Mitchelstown, Co. Cork, this tranquil community, often hailed as a hidden gem by visitors.
However, this tightknit village of 430 residents has endured profound sorrow. The loss of several individuals from Glenbrohane and nearby communities to suicide has left deep wounds, bringing grief and unanswered questions. This period of reflection sparked a determined effort to foster mental health and wellbeing within the community.
From this place of sadness emerged an inspiring vision: the creation of a community hub aimed at enhancing social connections and support. The project’s goal is clear:
- Establish a welcoming space where locals can gather, enjoy a cup of tea or coffee, and share conversations.
- Provide additional services focused on promoting positive mental health and wellbeing, addressing the challenges of rural and social isolation in Glenbrohane and its surrounding areas.
Templeglantine
"Teampall an Ghleanntáin," meaning "the church of the little glen," stands as a central landmark in Templeglantine, alongside Halla Inse Bhán. The area boasts a vibrant sporting community, active GAA, Camogie, and Soccer clubs, while also nurturing a deep-rooted tradition of Irish culture, particularly in traditional dance and music. As part of the Sliabh Luachra region, the parish plays a key role in preserving and celebrating this musical heritage.
The opening of the Limerick Greenway has significantly benefited the village, attracting visitors and providing a valuable space for local wellbeing. Templeglantine is home to a strong network of volunteers who collaborate across various clubs and organizations, driving community projects forward. In recent years, efforts have focused on upgrading facilities; enhancing biodiversity; increasing social inclusion and cultural diversity, having recently joined with the Sikh community to plant a sacred forest. Currently, the most ambitious initiative to date is underway, developing a mobility hub, an all-weather pitch, and a natural recreation space.
Thomondgate Residents Association
Our community, steeped in history and nestled along the River Shannon between King John's Castle and Thomond Rugby Stadium, has undertaken numerous initiatives to enhance our neighbourhood. Recognized as an Architectural Conservation Area, Thomondgate reflects a deep heritage while fostering a vibrant and diverse community.
We have proudly earned accolades in the Going for Gold Competition—securing Bronze in 2023 and Gold in 2024. Our environmental efforts include biodiversity planting, artistic street enhancements with murals and decorated bollards, and a Climate Action Program that introduced native Irish trees and hedging to beautify and sustain the area. Additionally, we’ve created a remembrance garden in honor of a late resident.
This summer, we are excited to host our first Active Healthy Community Playday, in collaboration with LCCC and Limerick Sports Partnership, bringing together children of all ages for a day of fun and activity.
Photo Captions:
- Thomondgate Residents Association are joined by Mayor of Limerick John Moran to accept the award for claiming first place in the Urban Neighbourhood/Village with a Population under 3000 category at the IPB Pride of Place Awards.
- IPB Insurance CEO John Kearns presents Templeglantine with an award for coming runner-up in the Town with a Population between 1000 and 2000, category at the IPB Pride of Place Awards.
- PB Insurance CEO John Kearns presents representatives from The Local Hub, Glenbrohane with an award for coming runner-up in the Community Wellbeing Initiative category at the IPB Pride of Place Awards.