With over 10,000 visitors in Limerick for the Special Olympics, the event has undoubtedly had a major economic impact for the city and the region. To accurately measure the overall benefit of the Games for Limerick, Shannon Development and Special Olympics Ireland have jointly commissioned specialist local sports analysts from BDO Ireland, to undertake a detailed Socio Economic Study of the Games for Limerick. This study is expected to be complete by August.
Speaking about the study and importance of the Games Dr. Vincent Cunnane, Chief Executive, Shannon Development said: “For the first time we will have a clear measurement of the impact a major event like Special Olympics has for Limerick. This will allow us to go forward with confidence to secure similar high impact events for the city and the region.”
Shannon Development has worked closely with the Special Olympics Ireland Games staff and management since Limerick was first selected as the venue for the 2010 Games. Like many clubs and organisations throughout the region, Shannon Development staffs were delighted to be actively engaged in fundraising for the event. The Company provided a Games headquarters for Special Olympics at our Innovation Works building at the National Technology Park. This created an ideal base adjacent to the University of Limerick from where most planning, administration, volunteer recruitment, training and media services were provided.
“The ongoing legacy of the Games will be immense, not least the positive image portrayed for the city in the local and national print media, on radio and television. Most of all, the clear message from Matt English, CEO of Special Olympics Ireland at the closing ceremony who clearly committed to a return to Limerick for the Games in the future,” said Dr. Cunnane.
Already a key spin off from the Games, has been achieving European City of Sport status for Limerick in 2011, which was secured following a successful bid to the European organisers by Shannon Development and Limerick City Council. During their recent visit to Limerick the international judging panel for the European City of Sports committee said they were struck by the raw passion for sport evident throughout the city.
“With top class international standard facilities at the University of Limerick, on-site accommodation for over 2000 athletes, easy access from all parts of the country, an iconic venue like Thomond Park and a wide range of high quality hotel accommodation, Limerick is fast becoming a recognised centre for large scale national and international sporting events. Shannon Development will continue to work with local, national and international sporting bodies and event organisers to maximise all opportunities for the city,” Dr. Cunnane concluded.
Nandi O’Sullivan
Public Relations Manager
Tel: +353 61 710259
Mobile: +353 86-2371510
Fax: 061 363180
E-mail: Click Here