Friendship agreement links Limerick with Savannah, USA

A FRIENDSHIP agreement has been formally signed between Limerick and Savannah.

Officials from the oldest city in the US state of Georgia were on Shannonside to finalise the deal, which it’s anticipated will mark the start of a new chapter of collaboration and cultural exchange.

Limerick’s Mayor John Moran, príomh comhairleoir, Cllr Dan McSweeney and Limerick council’s director general Dr Pat Daly welcomed the delegation.

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This was led by their own first citizen, Van R Johnson.

The declaration of friendship aims to foster mutual understanding, promote tourism, and encourage economic development through shared initiatives and projects.

Mayor Moran said: “Savannah’s rich past and dynamic present make it a perfect partner for Limerick as we look to the future together.

“As we embark on this journey, let us remember that a place is not just made of buildings and roads - it is made of people and communities. It is the friendships we form, the ideas we exchange, and the common goals we pursue that make initiatives like friendship agreements successful.”

Joining the Savannah mayor were various figures from the American city’s administration.

As part of their three day visit last week, there was a presentation on the 2027 Ryder Cup set to take place at Adare Manor.

A site visit was also made to Opera Square in the heart of the city, alongside talks on tourism and the economy.

Mayor Johnson said: “It’s been great so far, Limerick is a beautiful city, everyone is being so nice and so kind. I’m looking forward to making this the first of many visits and I’m looking forward to continuing to host folks from Limerick in Savannah.”

Cllr McSweeney added: “The signing of this agreement reflects our commitment to building international relationships and enhancing the cultural and economic vitality of our city and county.”

Council director general Dr Pat Daly also welcomed the agreement which was signed off at County Hall in Dooradoyle.

“This declaration is a testament to the strong ties that already exist between Limerick and Savannah. By working together, we can achieve great things and create lasting benefits for our communities. We are excited about the possibilities this friendship will bring.”

Savannah boasts a rich Irish heritage, with roots tracing back to the mid-18th century.

The 1840s saw a significant influx of Irish immigrants, drawn by a booming job market before and after the Famine.

One in four Savannahians claim Irish ancestry.

Savannah and Limerick share similarities, including comparable population sizes and locations on estuaries connecting to the ocean.

The Limerick Diaspora in Savannah actively engages with Limerick officials, particularly surrounding Savannah's renowned St Patrick's Day Parade, the second largest in the world after New York City.