UL ‘proud to support’ Ireland’s Presidency of Council of the European Union
University of Limerick is honoured to support Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
As a host of key EU Presidency events, and in close partnership with Limerick City and County Council through a twinning programme with Germany, UL is proud to contribute to meaningful European engagement, collaboration and dialogue.
A focus on Europe is deeply embedded in the University’s mission, reflected in decades of leadership in European studies and in an enduring commitment to fostering connections across the continent.
“Engagement with Europe is part of the DNA of University of Limerick,” said UL President Professor Shane Kilcommins.
“For decades, we have cultivated a strong tradition in European studies and partnership, and we are proud to support Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union by bringing together voices from across Europe to collaborate, learn and address shared challenges.
“We look forward to welcoming delegates, partners and visitors from across Europe to our campus and city.
“University of Limerick stands ready to support the success of Ireland’s Presidency and extends a warm and sincere welcome to all who join us in Limerick during this important period for Europe and our country,” Professor Kilcommins added.
The European Union flag was raised over King John’s Castle in a symbolic ceremony marking Limerick’s official launch of its programme for the Irish EU Presidency of the Council of the European Union and its partnership with Germany.
The programme is being delivered by Limerick City and County Council in partnership with the Centre for Irish German Studies at UL and the Department of Foreign Affairs, alongside a wide network of regional institutions and organisations.
It’s part of Cultúr 2026: Sharing Ireland’s Culture, a national initiative supported by Culture Ireland and the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport.
The flag-raising formed the centrepiece of a civic event celebrating European unity, accompanied by a performance of Beethoven’s Ode to Joy - the official anthem of the European Union and the Council of Europe.
The event was led by Mayor of Limerick, John Moran with Wolfram von Heynitz, Deputy Head of Mission at the German Embassy in Ireland, Príomh Chomhairleoir of Limerick City and County Council (LCCC), Cllr Tom Ruddle, Director General of LCCC, Dr Pat Daly and Prof. Gisela Holfter, Director of the Centre for Irish German Studies at University of Limerick.
Mayor of Limerick, John Moran, said: “We are proud in Limerick to be playing this key role in Ireland’s overall EU Presidency 2026 programme. We know that the next six months will create new opportunities to strengthen our already strong relationship with Germany and build lasting partnerships across culture, education and enterprise. Our programme will showcase the very best of Limerick through a diverse calendar of cultural events, performances, exhibitions and community initiatives. It is an opportunity to welcome new audiences and demonstrate Limerick’s ambition and creativity on a European stage.”
Professor Gisela Holfter, Director, Centre for Irish German Studies at UL, said: “I am truly delighted about the wonderful Limerick–Germany pairing programme taking place over the next six months, made possible through the contributions of so many partners across the cultural, academic and economic spheres. The programme showcases the depth and diversity of Limerick’s connections with Germany, which stretch back several centuries. We hope many people will take the opportunity to explore the fascinating and beautiful outcomes of these long-standing links, and that you enjoy the journey.”
The programme is supported by a wide range of partners, including Government departments, third-level institutions, cultural organisations and business networks.
Further details and updates are available on the Limerick Council Presidency website or go to Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union site for more.
