Cork is almost certain to become the Cultural Capital of Europe in 2005 following a recommendation yesterday by an EU committee.
The committee, composed of representatives from the European Commission, the European Parliament, the Council of Ministers and the Committee of the Regions, chose Cork from a shortlist of three other Irish cities: Galway, Limerick and Waterford.
The recommendation must be considered by the European Parliament and formally approved by the Commission and the Council of Ministers. But EU officials do not expect any objection from any of the institutions.
The news was greeted with joy in the city last night. The city manager, Mr Joe Gavin, said the award would be of huge benefit to Cork and a major catalyst for the city.
He said arts organisations, as well as businesses and other bodies, had combined to work on Cork's application for the title and would be overjoyed at the news.
"Cork will now become the Irish and European capital of culture for 2005 and we aim to spend £10 million in promoting the city on the run-in to the acceptance of the title. It will be a marvellous boost for the city.
"Next month we will be unveiling our plan for the renewal of the city's dockland area, early in the new year the multi-million pound renewal plan for Patrick's Street will get under way and we are proceeding with plans for the pedestrianisation of Oliver Plunkett Street," Mr Gavin said.