THE EMBATTLED CEO of the Limerick City of Culture programme has resigned.
Patricia Ryan, who was once a €150,000 a year adviser to former Health Minister Mary Harney, announced her resignation today, just days after the project’s artistic director stepped down.
Ryan, who had also been an adviser to Pat Cox, the chairman of the board of Limerick City of Culture, was appointed in October.
The appointment became the subject of scrutiny after it emerged the position had not been advertised.
Ryan said that the speculation had ‘undermined her authority’.
“The speculation and commentary surrounding the events of recent days has regrettably compromised my authority and capacity to continue leading this project,” she said.
“It is important that a suitable successor is appointed to lead out on the next important phase and ensure the delivery of the programme and the project which is so vital to the rebranding of Limerick.
I would like to pay particular tribute to the exceptionally hard working team of people in City of Culture that I have worked alongside on this project. Their dedication, diligence and commitment will ensure the continued success of this project.
“I wish the Limerick National City of Culture 2014 project every success and as a proud Limerick woman will continue to offer it my support.”
Arts Minister Jimmy Deenihan praised Ryan’s work and said it was important to ‘move on in a calm and measured way’.
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