Limerick's plans revealed to mark the 250th birthday of Daniel O'Connell revealed

Limerick’s main thoroughfare is named after the reforming politician Daniel O’Connell, and he is recognised with a statue at the Crescent area of the street

placeholder image — Limerick’s main thoroughfare is named after the reforming politician Daniel O’Connell, and he is recognised with a statue at the Crescent area of the street

Historical walk around Limerick city centre to remember reforming politician

LIMERICK will mark the anniversary of the birth of Daniel O’Connell with a historic walk around the city next week.

Wednesday, August 6, marks exactly 250 years since the birth of the reforming politician, whose name is given to Limerick’s main thoroughfare, and who is honoured with a statue.

It is at this memorial overlooking O'Connell Street where the free walk will kick off from, at 3pm on Saturday, August 9.

The tour will explore O’Connell’s legacy, the origins of the monument in his name, and how Limerick evolved during his lifetime.

It also reflects on how his ideas resonated locally.

The tour will take in The Augustinian Church on O’Connell Street, where the role of faith in Daniel O’Connell’s life will be explored.

Also on the agenda is a visit to the People’s Park, and Limerick Courthouse, where his career as a barrister will be appreciated.

There will be tales of mass gatherings organised by the former member of the British parliament, which were termed “monster meetings”.

The tour will explore his relationship with cities like Limerick, where his influence helped shape political consciousness in the 19th century.

It will wind up near the River Shannon where attendees will be asked to pause to take a moment to reflect on the politician’s enduring legacy: not just as a political leader, but as a symbol of hope, reform and the power of the people.

It’s expected the commemorative tour will conclude around 5pm.

All are welcome - but comfortable footwear is recommended!

The commemorative event comes as part of a broader calendar of civic engagement in Limerick.

Already this year, Kilmallock played host to the State-led National Famine Commemoration.

O’Connell was born in Kerry, which will host a State commemorative event the day before the walk in Limerick.

He also represented Co Clare in the British parliament, with a wide range of events planned in the Banner county.

Dublin will also host a number of events.