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22 Oct 2025

Limerick Chamber issues warning of economic shock in Mid-West region

Limerick Chamber's economic report also reveals high levels of institutional purchases

Limerick Chamber issues warning of economic shock in Mid-West region

Chamber economist Seán Golden, president Mairead Connolly and chief executive Michelle Gallagher photographed at the launch of the 2025 Mid-West Economic Insights (MWEI) report | PICTURE: Brian Arthur

THE MID-WEST region is more prone to economic shocks than the rest of the country, Limerick Chamber has warned.

In its annual economic insights report, the business representative group has pointed out that almost half of the Gross Value Added (GVA) in the region is made up by the manufacturing sector.

Essentially, GVA represents the net contribution of each sector to the local economy.

And due to the Mid-West's reliance on manufacturing, it means it could face bigger challenges in a downturn.

However, Sean Golden, the Chamber's director of policy and chief economist, added: "The manufacturing sector in the Mid-West is highly diverse."

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The positive is that the local economy is not concentrated on one manufacturing sector alone.

Elsewhere, the economic report reveals that more than half of the homes purchased in Limerick from January to November last year were done by what are known as "non household entities", as opposed to personal house buyers.

Non-household entities in the context of residential property transactions refer to private companies, charitable organisations, and state institutions that purchase or sell homes.

And, the study has revealed that a personal housebuyer is paying, on average, €20,000 more for property.

The Chamber has warned that Limerick will need up to 4,300 new homes per year to match the demand for housing.

Transport in Limerick also came under the microscope of the report, with Mr Golden's analysis revealing ridership was almost back to pre-pandemic levels.

"However, the ability to expand public transport could be a cause for concern when looking at licensed bus drivers.

“The number of licensed bus operators is declining across the Mid-West.

“In 2023, Limerick had 60 operators, Clare had 51 and Tipperary had 54, all trending downwards since their peak years," he stated.

Mr Golden warned that if the region wants to continue attracting international workers, the appropriate infrastructure must be put in place, such as housing and childcare along with healthcare provision.

"Despite these challenges, the Mid-West remains well-positioned in terms of employment levels and has experienced significant post-Covid growth.

Shannon Airport continues to demonstrate resilience and Shannon Foynes Port remains a key asset for the region, offering vital international trade access and serving as Ireland's largest port for break and dry bulk cargo," he said.

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