City of culture chief’s appointment ‘could damage Limerick’s reputation’

The appointment of the chief executive of Limerick City of Culture 2014 could cause reputational damage to the city, a councillor has claimed.

Patricia Ryan, former adviser to ex-president of the European Parliament, Pat Cox, was given the position on the recommendation of Limerick city and county manager, Conn Murray. The job was not advertised, it emerged.

Mr Murray has confirmed he recommended Ms Ryan to the city of culture board, of which Mr Cox is chairman, which accepted it.