Plans for memorial for late University of Limerick student
PLANS are underway to erect a plaque in memory of the late Joe Drennan near the area where he tragically lost his life.
The young journalist, who was in his fourth year at University of Limerick lost his life in a hit-and-run in October.
It was after he finished work at a nearby restaurant, La Cucina, that he died while waiting for a bus back to the city centre.
It is here where councillors are proposing to erect a plaque to remember him.
Fianna Fail councillor Joe Pond asked the local authority if they could organise this plaque.
He was told that any proposal like this needs to be approved by the local authority's civic memorial and public art technical committee.
In a written answer, senior executive officer Laura Flannery also outlined a number of other steps which would need to be taken before a plaque can be introduced.
But speaking to the Limerick Leader after the meeting, councillor Pond, who lives in nearby Annacotty, said he will be progressing the idea.
“We’ve been speaking with the family and they want this,” he said.
“I just want a simple plaque on the wall. I think that’s what the family would be happy with. If Joe’s friends were in Limerick again, they could remember him through this plaque,” added the City East councillor.
He pointed out how a bench in nearby Castletroy Park had been dedicated in memory of the late Vicky Phelan.
Councillor Pond also asked the local authority if it, or Bus Eireann were considering moving the bus stop in question.
In a written answer, John O’Callaghan, executive engineer of Active Travel said he is not aware of any plans by the bus provider.
“However, Active Travel is considering the inclusion of this bus stop as part of the 2024 Bus Shelter Enabling Works programme. As part of proposed works, a concrete footpath build-out is being considered along with the installation of a new bus shelter,” he added.