Fresh calls for festive trail in Limerick after ‘Light Up’ cancellation
CALLS have been made for “more ambition” to be shown in relation to festive celebrations in Limerick city, particularly in relation to executing a Christmas lights trail.
During Limerick City and County Council's November Metropolitan meeting, Councillor Olivia O'Sullivan proposed an enchanting Christmas lights trail take place in People’s Park as part of the city's festive celebrations.
Expressing disappointment at the absence of updates on Christmas on Limerick’s social media channels, and at the cancellation of the Light Up Limerick event, Cllr O'Sullivan urged the council to take a more ambitious approach to growing Christmas celebrations in the city.
“This would be a fantastically illuminated self-guided trail of colourful lighting and projections leading around the park with some giant props and music along the way,” proposed the Fine Gael councillor.
Inspiration for the idea was drawn from successful light trail events in other locations, and the potential for creating magical experiences for families and individuals with autism or sensory processing disorders.
Cllr O'Sullivan acknowledged: “I'm obviously aware the event cannot at this stage be delivered for 2023.
“I'm therefore officially requesting on public record that this be looked at for Christmas 2024.”
Having suggested a light trail “earlier in the year” for Christmas 2023, the councillor stated: “nothing happened”.
She continued: “We need more ambition and if the council executive is not going to lead on this despite repeated requests from councillors in meetings and workshops at the start of the year, then, as councillors, we’re going to have to start making demands in public meetings if that's what it takes to be listened to.”
She noted the importance of starting work on the Christmas programme “a year in advance” and allocating a significant budget, along with regular online updates.
In response, Gordon Daly of Limerick City and County Council, stated: “We are not in a position to implement a light trail for Christmas in Limerick 2023, however, it can be investigated in regard to Christmas 2024.”
The motion was seconded by Cllr Sarah Kiely.