Ireland’s southern cities bid for culture title

Four cities in the south of Ireland are vying for the title of European Capital of Culture, with three of them making a unique joint bid.

Fri, 17 Apr, 2015 - 01:00

Ann Cahill

The title, which Cork held in 2005, is coveted by cities all over Europe as it attracts thousands of extra visitors and boosts business.

Limerick is to compete for the title for 2020, and the cities of Waterford, Kilkenny and Wexford will jointly bid, a first in the event’s 30-year history.

Representatives from the three cities visited Brussels where they explained their proposal to Fine Gael MEP Sean Kelly. Under the banner Ireland South East 2020, Waterford City will be its capital and focal point.

Mr Kelly said the region’s rich culture and heritage has been to the fore for decades as is well illustrated by the Spraoi and Tall Ships festivals in Waterford, the Kilkenny Arts Festival and the Wexford Opera Festival among others.

“The further cultural and socio-economic development in art, culture and tourism that this title brings would be a wonderful opportunity for the south of Ireland.”

The Capital of Culture is chosen by ministers from the EU member states and organised by the European Commission. Cities from two countries, Ireland and Croatia, will be chosen for the title in 2020. The proposals will be assessed by an international panel of cultural experts, according to criteria laid down by the EU.

Mr Kelly said the bids were great news for the region as the title can bring tremendous cultural, social and economic benefits.

“Previous winners have seen an average increase in tourism of 12% compared to the year before, with the added benefit of hundreds of diverse projects involving public and private investment bringing growth, jobs and development to the city and region in the years that follow,” he said.

The Government wants to increase overseas visits to 10m by 2025. Initiatives from Fáilte Ireland for a new cultural and historical route from the Boyne Valley to East Cork will include the Waterford Viking Triangle and the Medieval Mile in Kilkenny will contribute to this.