Ireland's EU Presidency

The Centre for Irish-German Studies is delighted to be centrally involved in the upcoming pairing of Limerick and Germany. A diverse and engaging programme of events will take place across Limerick City and County as part of Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union and Limerick’s official pairing with Germany.

As part of a nationwide initiative developed for Ireland's EU Presidency, each Irish local authority area has been paired with an EU Member State. The pairings are designed to bring Europe closer to local communities by fostering cultural, educational, civic and economic connections between counties and their partner countries. Limerick has been paired with Germany, Europe's largest economy and one of Ireland's most important European partners. 

Throughout the Presidency period, the pairing will provide opportunities to celebrate German culture, language and heritage while exploring shared interests and challenges through a wide range of public events and exchanges. A programme of events is being developed by Limerick City and County Council in partnership with the Centre for Irish-German Studies at University of Limerick and the German Embassy in Dublin.

Throughout the EU Presidency period, residents and visitors will be able to enjoy regular guided tours and public lectures across Limerick’s academic, cultural and arts institutions, with special thematic focuses on art, historical links, music, German language, energy, sustainability and migration.

A number of major international conferences will also be hosted by Mary Immaculate College, the University of Limerick and the Technological University of the Shannon, bringing together academics, researchers, policymakers and practitioners from Ireland, Germany and across Europe.

The programme reflects the spirit of Ireland's EU Presidency by encouraging dialogue, cultural exchange and greater public engagement with Europe at a local level.

The programme of events is supported by the Department of Foreign Affairs, Irish Embassy in Germany, German-Irish Chamber of Industry & Commerce, Limerick Chamber of Commerce, Shannon Foynes Port, University of Limerick, Mary Immaculate College, Technological University of the Shannon, Saint Mary‘s Cathedral, Irish Palatine Association & Museum, Rathkeale, Hunt Museum, Limerick City Gallery of Art, Limerick Museum, Studio GBM, St John’s Cathedral, Rathkeale & District Historical Society, Thomond Archaeological & Historical Society and IFI.

Programme details were announced at the official launch of the Limerick–Germany Pairing on 1 July at King John’s Castle and are available below and at www.Limerick.ie. The programme will continue to evolve throughout Ireland’s EU Presidency period, please check regularly for updates