Park troubled by shootings shows a brighter side

A TROUBLED Limerick community came out to celebrate the great things going on unheralded in St Mary’s Park, the scene of a number of shootings.

Local residents turned out in their hundreds on Saturday for a day of regeneration.

Local councillor John Gilligan said: “It was like old times, neighbours and friends all coming out to enjoy themselves. There was something for all ages. The young people showed their break-dancing skills while the older generation enjoyed the old-time waltzing with Paddy Mason on the piano accordion. It was great to see a demonstration of the community spirit that is the true St Mary’s Park. People just having fun.”

Blind musician Paddy Mason, chairman of the community council, helped organise the event.

“The idea was to shake off the gloom that has been over the community in recent times. This is a great place with fine people. And we just wanted people here and outside to know what a fine community this is,” he said.