Limerick is set to host Ireland’s largest community awards this year

IRELAND’S largest community awards, The IPB Pride of Place awards will be hosted by Limerick City and County Council this year.

Hundreds of delegates set to travel from across the four provinces to Limerick’s Strand Hotel for the awards on Friday, November 7.

Officially launched on Wednesday, March 11 at King John’s Castle, the awards are an annual competition organised by peacebuilding charity Co-operation Ireland and sponsored by IPB Insurance.

Dr Brendan O’Regan, a transformative figure in the Mid-West region, founded Co-operation Ireland in 1979 as Co-operation North, to foster cross border links. It is Ireland’s leading peacebuilding charity.

The IPB Pride of Place awards were established to promote and celebrate the best in community development. The awards recognise the selfless efforts of people in making their local neighbourhoods better places to live, work and socialise. 2025 marks the 23rd year of the awards.

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Speaking at the launch Mayor of Limerick, John Moran, commented, saying; “It’s a real honour for Limerick to host this year’s Pride of Place awards. These awards are a celebration that really reflects that heart and soul of our communities. The people of Ireland take a huge sense of pride in the areas we call home. This is obvious with the incredible work, often done by volunteers, continuing to be done throughout our own city and county. The spirit of collaboration and care is deeply rooted here, so Limerick is a fitting place for this national event.

“These awards recognise that ‘different kind of energy’ that we pride ourselves on – the everyday efforts that make our towns, villages and neighbourhoods thrive. I want to take this opportunity to welcome all the groups to Limerick and thank and congratulate them for all they have done.”

Director General, Limerick City and County Council, Dr Pat Daly, said: “These awards are a celebration of community spirit, resilience and collaboration. The Pride of Place event shines a spotlight on volunteers and organisers who make a real difference in our communities. Hosting the awards marks our commitment in Limerick City and County Council to inclusion, civic pride and empowering local people. It’s a wonderful opportunity for us to showcase our different kind of energy in Limerick and to stand in solidarity with communities across the country.”

Ian Jeffers, Chief Executive Officer, Co-operation Ireland said; "The IPB Pride of Place Awards are our opportunity to celebrate and recognise incredible communities across the island of Ireland. Over many years the awards have had an immeasurable impact on towns and villages, driven by the dedication of volunteers and their love for their communities. 

“The awards speak to what Co-operation Ireland is all about – bridging communities and building peace and prosperity. I am looking forward to welcoming hundreds of delegates from community organisations across Ireland to the wonderful city of Limerick this November for the grand finale of the 2025 awards.”

Chair of IPB Insurance John Hogan said; "Pride of Place is more than an awards event. It is a testament to the incredible spirit, determination, and creativity of communities across our island. It is an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the outstanding efforts of individuals, organisations, and local authorities who work tirelessly to uplift their areas and enrich the lives of those around them."

Tom Dowling, Chairman, IPB Pride of Place, said; “The purpose of these awards is to meaningfully acknowledge and celebrate the work of our incredible communities all over the island of Ireland. Our Pride of Place nominees nominated by their local authority are consistently working to make their places wonderful caring places to live in. Our judges are looking forward to another year of inspirational judging experiences.”