Repatriation effort of 'hero's' remains to Limerick secures sponsor

THE QUEST to bring home the remains of one of Limerick’s most revered historical figures, Patrick Sarsfield, has taken a leap forward as a major sponsor, has stepped up to fund crucial excavation work and DNA proofing for the campaign.

The campaign seeks to return Sarsfield's remains to Limerick, a city intrinsically tied to his legacy, funded by Carelon Global Solutions Ireland, a US health-tech company that established its R&D hub at the National Technology Park in Limerick in 2021.

In history, Patrick Sarsfield, made a lasting impact through his leadership during the Siege of Limerick in 1690.

His brave and daring feats, including the famous Sarsfield Ride, which led 600 men to blow up the English siege train bound for Limerick have earned him a place in history.

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Unfortunately, he met his end at the Battle of Landen in 1693 in modern-day Belgium, where he was fatally wounded.

Repatriating the remains requires more than just excavations, and this is where the DNA proofing process becomes crucial, and Carelon’s expertise in genetics makes them a perfect partner for the campaign.

John Patrick Shaw, head of Carelon Global Solutions Ireland, expressed his excitement about becoming the lead sponsor of this initiative, and supporting the Patrick Sarsfield Homecoming project,

He highlighted that the company's decision to support the campaign stems from their admiration for Limerick's history and pro-business environment, and reaffirmed Carelon's commitment to standing by the campaign until a successful conclusion.

The goal is to complete the DNA testing with living descendants of Sarsfield, in Ireland and elsewhere in Europe, and if all goes to plan, confirm the remains by next summer, with formal repatriation to Ireland targeted for 2024 or 2025.