IRELAND AND Munster rugby legend Paul O’Connell – who was conferred with the freedom of Limerick city yesterday – said politicians, business and sports people, and ordinary citizens needed to come together to overcome the city’s tarnished image.
Addressing about 1,000 people in an open-air ceremony at City Hall, the rugby giant said people needed to adopt the ethos behind Munster’s success on the pitch in order to replicate it on the streets.
“We need to stand up to antisocial behaviour, crime and obstacles to our ambition. We need to take an active part in the running of the city and the direction our city takes.
“When Munster wins a trophy no one records how many Cork players’ or Limerick players’ names are on the team – the only thing that goes up on the trophy is Munster, in big block capitals. We need to adapt this approach for the city’s success.”
In an inspirational speech, O’Connell (32) added: “We need to co-operate for the greater good of the city. Party political agendas, organisational agendas, and personal agendas, need to be put aside to give Limerick the greatest chance to thrive. If the best minds in politics, business, sport and academia come together to put the best foot forward for the city, anything can be achieved here.”
Admitting he was “truly humbled” and “surprised” to have been awarded the freedom of his native city, he dedicated the honour to every coach who had ever worked with him since he was a child.
O’Connell was joined by members of his family including his partner, Emily, their son, Paddy (2), his brothers, Justin and Marcus, and his father, Michael – “my biggest influence” – and mother Sheila. Returning to his vision for the future of his native city, O’Connell denied having political aspirations: “No, I don’t no, no . . . certainly not. No.”
However, he said he wanted to set up his own business in Limerick and create employment for the region, whenever his playing days are done.
“Limerick city needs to advance and it is only through genuine focus that this can happen. I applaud the recent steps taken by Denis Brosnan and Michael Noonan and I’d like to offer them my support, and I’d remind you we all have a role to play in the future of our city.”
Those attending included Irish rugby manager Declan Kidney and members of the Irish and Munster rugby teams.