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07 Sept 2025

International Rugby Experience closes its doors for the final time

Statement of farewell says 'it is profoundly disappointing'

International Rugby Experience closes its doors for the final time

International Rugby Experience

Reporter:

Faye Dorgan

23 Dec 2024 11:33 AM

THE INTERNATIONAL Rugby Experience (IRE) is closing its doors for the final time in Limerick's O'Connell St this Monday, just before Christmas.
In a statement of farewell on behalf of the company, they said it is "profoundly disappointing"
The statement reads: "From the outset, our goal was to help support Limerick city by gifting the building to the people of Limerick. Unfortunately, this has not been realised.
"We extend our heartfelt gratitude to every team member who worked tirelessly on growing all aspects of the business, and to the tens of thousands of visitors who walked through its doors—kicking with Jonny Wilkinson, passing a ball with Faf de Klerk, and enjoying the many other exciting activities this state-of-the-art facility had to offer.
"The IRE thanks Paul O’Connell and Keith Wood for their dedication to the project along with the many local traders and organisations for their invaluable support since the beginning."
The IRE has brought over 60,000 people to Limerick city since opening in May 2023, including overseas visitors from 31 countries.
Additionally, over 7,000 people visited their Santa’s Secret Workshop, and IRE have hosted over 70 community and corporate events across their spaces.
"Over the past 18 months, the IRE has contributed €9 million to the local economy," the statement reads.
"We worked with over 200 suppliers locally and regionally, including artisan crafts producers who supplied our store, as well as photographers, printers, media outlets and facilities management companies, amongst many others.
"Last year, the International Rugby Experience was voted the nation’s favourite building in the Royal Institute of Architects in Ireland (RIAI) Public Choice Award.
"In our short time in the heart of Limerick, it has been our great pleasure to contribute to the city and its communities."

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