Press Release: Tuesday 17 June 2025
Minister Murnane O’Connor welcomes official accreditation the National Healthy Cities and Counties Ireland Network, and designation of Galway, Limerick and Waterford
Minister for Public Health, Wellbeing and National Drug Strategy, Jennifer Murnane O’Connor TD, has today welcomed the announcement that the National Healthy Cities and Counties of Ireland Network, and the cities of Galway, Limerick and Waterford have officially been accredited as a World Health Organisation’s (WHO’s) European Healthy City in Phase VII (2019-2025), joining a prestigious network of cities across Europe recognised for their commitment to placing health, equity and sustainability at the centre of local governance and development.
Minister Murnane O’Connor said:
“I warmly congratulate the National Healthy Cities and Counties of Ireland Network, Galway, Limerick and Waterford on this well-deserved recognition.
“The designation of these cities as a WHO European Healthy City is a testament to the collaborative efforts of the HSE, Local Authorities, community and voluntary sectors, academic institutions and other key stakeholders. This accreditation signifies a continued commitment towards building healthier, equitable and sustainable cities”.
This accreditation asserts the cities leadership in implementing innovative, cross-sectoral policies that promote public health, social inclusion, and sustainable urban living. This prestigious accreditation follows a rigorous evaluation process under the WHO European Healthy Cities Programme, which assesses cities around the globe on their ability to implement policies and initiatives that prioritise health, equity, and sustainable urban development.
Accreditation to the WHO Healthy Cities and Counties Programme brings significant and comprehensive benefits to Galway, Limerick and Waterford, aligning directly with the Local Community Development Committees (LCDCs) mandate for local development.
Mayor John Moran commented:
“This achievement reflects the hard work of our communities and staff in Limerick City and County Council who are, individually and collectively, dedicated to creating a healthier Limerick for all. Central to our vision is the ‘More Healthy Limerick’ pillar of the More for Limerick Mayoral Programme. This will guide our efforts to improve public health, promote active lifestyles and foster social inclusion right across Limerick. We want to make sure everything we do or do not is tested through the lens of its impact on the health of our residents.”
Mayor of Waterford City and County Council, Cllr Jason Murphy stated that:
“We are incredibly proud that Waterford City and County Council has received this vital World Health Organisation accreditation. It underscores our dedication to improving the health and well-being of everyone in Waterford and strengthens our ability to deliver impactful health and wellbeing initiatives for our community.”
The designation of the National Healthy Cities & Counties of Ireland Network, Galway, Waterford and Limerick as WHO European Healthy Cities allows for
- Access to international expertise and best practices through engagement with the WHO network of over 100 member cities.
- Integration of health considerations across all local government policies and plans, including the Local Economic & Community Plan (LECP) through their robust framework for Health.
- Intersectoral collaboration and partnerships between the Local Authority, HSE, community and voluntary groups, statutory agencies, and local communities.
- Meaningful citizen and community engagement by fostering a sense of ownership and collective responsibility.
- Long-term vision for sustainable development by focusing on creating healthy environments, reducing pollution, promoting active transport, and ensuring access to essential services.