Limerick groups 'do county proud' at 2026 IPB Pride of Place Awards

LIMERICK City and County Council has congratulated five outstanding community groups that proudly represented the county at the 2026 IPB Pride of Place Awards, with three groups securing national honours at the prestigious Awards ceremony.

The IPB Pride of Place Awards, organised by Co-operation Ireland and supported by IPB Insurance, recognise and celebrate the exceptional work of community groups throughout Ireland. The awards acknowledge the dedication of volunteers and community organisations that work tirelessly to improve quality of life in their local areas.

Limerick enjoyed notable success on the night, with Our Lady of Lourdes Community Centre named Winner in the Community Youth Initiative category.

The award recognises the centre's exceptional commitment to supporting young people through a diverse range of programmes and activities that foster personal development, inclusion and community engagement.

Further success was achieved by Doon, which was awarded Runner-Up in the Population 300-1,000 category.

Croom was also recognised as Runner-Up in the Population 1,000-2,000 category.

Mayor of Limerick, John Moran, paid tribute to all of the groups who represented Limerick, saying:

"These awards celebrate the very best of community life, and the success of Our Lady of Lourdes Community Centre, Doon and Croom is a testament to the energy, commitment and pride that exists in communities right across Limerick. Behind every project, initiative and achievement are volunteers who freely give their time to make their areas better places to live, work and visit.

“I want to congratulate all five groups who represented Limerick on the national stage. They have done their communities and our county proud."

Tom Ruddle, Príomh Chomhairleoir of Limerick City and County Council, added his congratulations, saying:

" Whether through supporting young people, promoting inclusion, fostering creativity or creating welcoming places for all ages, each of Limerick’s representatives showcased the best of Limerick. I congratulate Our Lady of Lourdes Community Centre, Doon, Croom, Ballyneety Men's Shed and Crafty Angels on their achievements and thank them for the outstanding contribution they make throughout the year."

Brian McCarthy Director of Service for Regeneration, Community, Sports and Rural Development, added:

"The Pride of Place Awards provide an opportunity to celebrate the remarkable work being undertaken by communities across Ireland. Limerick's representatives demonstrated innovation, resilience and an unwavering commitment to enhancing the quality of life in their local areas. Their achievements highlight the strength of the community sector in Limerick and the invaluable contribution made by volunteers every day."

Limerick City and County Council also extended its sincere appreciation to Ballyneety Men's Shed, which represented the county in the Age Friendly Communities category, and Crafty Angels, which represented Limerick in the Creative Community category.

While they were not among the national award recipients on the night, their nomination reflects the outstanding work being undertaken within their communities.

Held at the Convention Centre in Dublin, the 2026 awards ceremony in October brought together community representatives from across the island of Ireland to celebrate excellence in community development and civic pride.

This year's event held particular significance as it marked 100 years of IPB Insurance, the programme's principal sponsor, which celebrated a century of supporting local authorities, communities and public service organisations throughout Ireland.

Together, Our Lady of Lourdes Community Centre, Doon, Croom, Ballyneety Men's Shed and Crafty Angels showcased the strength, resilience and community spirit that exists throughout the county.

Limerick City and County Council wishes to acknowledge and thank all of the volunteers, committee members, community leaders and residents whose dedication and hard work contributed to these achievements.