Limerick’s first two babies born in 2025 have more in common than just their birthday!

THE ARRIVAL of Limerick’s first babies of 2025 was marked by a heartwarming coincidence -  both were born to local nurses.

The tiny tots were delivered into the world under the professional care of staff at University Maternity Hospital Limerick and they enjoyed an extra touch of expert care as both their mothers are dedicated nurses - one of them in the  maternity hospital.

The first baby, little Alfred Anil, entered the world at 2.54am on New Year’s Day.

Born to Mary Francis, a nurse in St John's Hospital, baby Alfred was a perfect 8 lbs on arrival or 3.620kg.

His first outfit was a gorgeous blue and white striped babygrow.

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The second baby, a little girl, named Ephie, pictured below, arrived at around 10am this Wednesday weighing 7 lbs 3 oz and her mum, Silta Joseph, just happens to be a nurse in the neonatal unit at the maternity hospital.

"Her due date was tomorrow," Silta told Limerick Live of her first born.

"She is happy, she is having her feeds, she is here with me. I'm looking forward to bringing her home," she smiled.

Originally from India, Silta has been living in Limerick for nearly two years.

"I like it - it's not too busy. It's a good city," she said.

While Limerick may not be home to the first baby in the country - there was still great excitement and anticipation in the hospital ahead of the new arrivals.

“When it doesn’t happen close to midnight you know it’s not going to be the first (in the country) but there is always huge excitement when any baby is born,” said Sandra Cullinane, Assistant Director of Midwifery, University Maternity Hospital Limerick.

Both mothers and babies are doing well and taking a well-earned rest after their busy New Year’s. 

“The main thing is the babies were healthy,” Sandra added.

Congratulations to all!