Limerick looks to Europe in the wake of Donald Trump's tariffs

AS AMERICAN president Donald Trump’s tariffs threaten to do huge economic damage to Ireland, business and political leaders locally are looking to strengthen their Europe ties.

Limerick and City and County Council welcomed a delegation from the Portuguese city of Oeiras, who were in the city as part of a trade mission.

The group, which included members of the Oeiras Valley Investment Agency (OVIA) met with Mayor John Moran, Príomh Comhairleoir, Cllr Dan McSweeney plus members of the local authority’s executive team.

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Updates were provided to the delegation on Limerick’s continued economic development progress, including through local enterprise, and the progression of a sustainable, future-proofed transport network.

The group discussed the possibility of further economic collaboration between the two cities, which both hold operations for Johnson and Johnson.

The Oeiras delegation also visited the Engine hub at Cecil Street in the city centre, along with taking part in tours of the Hartnett Enterprise Acceleration Centre at the Technological University of the Shannon’s campus in Moylish.

And they also paid a visit to the Opera Square site in the heart of Limerick as development there continues apace.

Mayor Moran said: “Since my election, I have made it clear that Limerick’s future is as an open, inclusive city region today with the world. Strategic collaboration between Limerick and Oeiras holds transformative potential for both cities. By fostering these partnerships from Limerick to other areas, especially our European Union partners, we’re continuing to create a dynamic ecosystem where innovation and opportunity flourish.”

He feels if Limerick gets together to build bridges with its partners in Europe, it will enhance its competitiveness on the world stage.

Elsewhere, the delegation received a briefing on preparations for the Ryder Cup in Adare, set for 2027.

Visits were also paid to Dell Technologies in Raheen Business Park - one of Limerick’s largest employers - and the IDA manufacturing centre in Castletroy.

Cllr McSweeney said: “I was delighted to meet the delegation during their stay in Limerick. Both of our cities share a commitment to innovation, growth and sustainability, which offers a unique opportunity to strengthen our economic ties.

Together, both Limerick and Oeiras can set a strong example of how effective collaboration can drive lasting prosperity in both areas.”

The council’s director general Dr Pat Daly added: “Strengthening ties between Limerick and Oeiras presents opportunities to drive innovation and sustainable growth. By working together, we can achieve great things and create lasting benefits for our communities. Limerick is open for business, both to our European friends and those further afield.”

The total population of Oeiras is approximately 175,000 people.

Located on the Portuguese Riviera, the town lies 16 kilometres from the capital city of Lisbon.

Like Limerick, Dell Technologies has a base there, as do a number of other blue-chip companies.

In this number are Google, Nestle, McDonald’s, BP and General Electric, which has a base at Shannon.