The funds are part of the Limerick Regeneration Programme
Over 120 organisations in Limerick city are set to receive a welcome financial injection of €2.26 million, through the Economic and Social Intervention Fund (ESIF).
This initiative falls under the umbrella of the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritages commitment to revitalising neighbourhoods.
These funds are allocated as part of the Limerick Regeneration Programme, with the aim of promoting access to opportunities, strengthening community bonds and improving services within the city.
ESIF funding supports a range of projects, in areas like education and health that aim to improve community well-being and employment prospects for those, in need of assistance or living in regions or vulnerable populations within Limericks Regeneration areas.
ESIF benefits organisations like Moyross Community Enterprise Centre, which contributes significantly to enhancing employability and skill development in the area, while Limerick City Build and UL Engage offer crucial services that promote education and support families.
Mayor of Limerick, John Moran praised the community projects, saying; “The Economic and Social Intervention Fund is an important source of funding for our efforts to uplift and empower our communities.
“Having visited all the regeneration areas in recent months, I have witnessed first-hand the transformative impact of these projects. This funding is not just an investment in infrastructure, but in the people of Limerick, ensuring they have access to the opportunities and services they deserve.”
Challenges of Limerick’s Past: A History of Regeneration
Incorporating the ESIF was introduced to address economic hurdles in neighborhoods of the city such, as Moyross, Southill, St Marys Park and Ballinacurra-Weston.
These areas have faced joblessness, educational disadvantages and crime for several years.
The initiative, known as the Limerick Regeneration Programme, began in 2007 with the aim of tackling standing issues in the region by enhancing housing and infrastructure.
Professor Maura Adshead, Head of Community Engagement at the University of Limerick, was also keen to emphasise how ESIF funding demonstrates the real difference we can make when we put the right support in the right place at the right time.
“ESIF funding has enabled us to continue HAPPEE student placements in speech and language, occupational therapy, and physiotherapy in six primary schools in Limerick,” Professor Adshead remarked. Children from St Mary’s National School engaged in the innovative HAPPEE Programme, which is funded by ESIF.
“These community-based student placements enable the provision of fully supervised in-school therapeutic services. It is a game-changer and we are delighted with ESIF’s support.”
A Path Forward for Limerick
Despite obstacles in the past, ESIF grants seem to be a source of hope for Limerick’s disadvantaged areas. By focusing on education, sustainable employment and community growth, the city is setting the stage for a diverse future.