Limerick City and County Council has approved a €1.73 billion budget for 2026 at a meeting in Dooradoyle today.
The meeting between the Mayor of Limerick, John Moran, elected council members, and the Executive of Limerick City and County Council took place in the Council Chamber at Limerick City and County Council’s offices.
The budget highlights the commitment to delivering the “More for Limerick” Mayoral Programme 2024-2029, with significant investment in housing, health, infrastructure, and economic development announced.
The Revenue Budget for 2026 has a total expected expenditure of €940.5 million.
The Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) Shared Services, which Limerick runs on behalf of all 31 local authorities, will receive the majority of the budget.
The remaining €300.7 million will help fund day-to-day services for the people of Limerick.
Housing and building have received a 28% increase compared to 2025.
Homeless services will receive €21.4 million, rental accommodation schemes €33.85 million, and housing maintenance and estate management €19.1 million.
Road maintenance and related services will receive €56.5 million, and €23.5 million will go to Limerick Fire & Rescue Service.
The budget also introduces a new Vacant Business Premises Rate.
One of the main challenges highlighted in the budget is the impact of inflation on Council services, particularly in areas such as housing maintenance, street cleaning, grass cutting, and road maintenance.
To ensure service levels are maintained, a 6% increase in commercial rates has been announced.
This is being offset by a grant percentage increase for over 80% of small and medium rate payers from 13.5% to 17.5%.
The Council will use funds from the rate increase to secure the delivery of core services and continue developing existing projects.
Mayor John Moran said the increase was a “necessary step given the lack of adequate funding from National Government,” adding that the budget “marks the beginning of an ongoing journey toward balanced and sustainable finances for Limerick.”
Elected members also reviewed a report outlining the proposed capital projects for the years 2026-2030 during today’s meeting, subject to funding availability.
The projected capital expenditure for 2026 is €793.35 million, pending national Government approval.
Major projects will include the King’s Island Flood Relief Scheme and the Foynes to Limerick Road Improvement Scheme.
Director General of Limerick City and County Council, Dr Pat Daly, described the budget as “a significant step that underlines our commitment to service and strategic growth.”
More information on today’s budget meeting can be found on the official Council website