Limerick can emerge from debacle with strong legacy

THE controversy surrounding Limerick City of Culture have given those of us in Cork cause to look back to 2005 when we held the prestigious title of European City of Culture, an event that created a lasting legacy that we continue to enjoy nine years later.

I had the honour of chairing the board of directors when Cork was the European Capital of Culture and I firmly believe that, the negativity created recent events, Limerick can and will put the past week behind it, seize the fantastic opportunity to highlight all that is positive about that fine city and get on with the project.

It will not be easy, I acknowledge that, but it is essential for the people of Limerick and its hinterland that the show goes on. It is encouraging to see that a new artistic director has been appointed and appears an individual with significant experience in the arts.