Limerick City and County Council has warmly welcomed the announcement by Minister for Education and Youth Hildegarde Naughton of the expansion of the City Connects programme to 13 schools across Limerick city from the beginning of the 2026/27 school year
The initiative represents a significant investment in supporting children and young people experiencing educational disadvantage through a proven, whole-school approach focused on attendance, learning and wellbeing.
The Limerick cluster will comprise 12 primary schools and one post-primary school, delivering enhanced supports and stronger connections between schools, families, community organisations and public services. The expansion forms part of the Government's DEIS Strategy to 2035 and DEIS Plus implementation programme.
Mayor of Limerick, John Moran, welcomed the announcement.
"Easy access to education for all is essential for the future of not just the kids and families involved but all of society. This is a very positive development for Limerick and further helps our ongoing work to help young people overcome barriers to education and participation.
"I want to thank Minister Naughton and the Government for this significant investment in our communities. I also want to acknowledge and thank the staff of Limerick City and County Council who have worked closely with national agencies, schools and local stakeholders to help bring this programme to Limerick. Their collaborative efforts have been instrumental in reaching this important milestone."
Príomh Chomhairleoir Tom Ruddle said the programme reflects the importance of partnership and community-based supports.
"Educational success is about much more than what happens within the school gates. The City Connects model recognises the importance of supporting the whole child and strengthening links between schools, families and services across the community.
"We welcome the Government's commitment to expanding the programme to Limerick and thank all those involved in developing this initiative locally. In particular, I want to recognise the dedication of Council staff who have worked alongside educational, community and state partners to help advance this project."
Director General of Limerick City and County Council, Dr Pat Daly, said the announcement aligns with the Council's commitment to supporting inclusive and thriving communities.
"Limerick City and County Council is committed to working with partners to improve outcomes for children, young people and families. The expansion of City Connects is a welcome example of how joined-up approaches can deliver meaningful benefits for communities.
"I would like to thank the Government and the Department of Education and Youth for their investment and confidence in Limerick. I also want to acknowledge the considerable work undertaken by Council staff and our partners across education, community and public service sectors in supporting the development of this initiative. We look forward to continuing that collaboration as the programme is rolled out across the city."
The City Connects programme is an evidence-based model that helps schools identify and respond to the individual strengths and needs of students while connecting them to appropriate supports and opportunities. Evidence from its implementation has demonstrated positive outcomes in attendance, participation and wellbeing.
Limerick City and County Council looks forward to continuing to work with educational, community and government partners to support the successful implementation of the programme in the city.
