Major tourist attraction in Limerick closes, with reported loss of around 50 jobs [Video]

The International Rugby Experience (IRE) in Limerick city centre has closed its doors for the final time two days before Christmas.

Having launched in May 2023, the tourist attraction was described as an “interactive visitor experience” and a “six-storey, immersive celebration of the game”.

The not-for-profit venture was initially funded via a €30 million investment by the JP McManus Charitable Foundation.

In October 2024, the IRE announced that it would cease operations and close its doors on 23 December this year, with the Irish Examiner reporting at the time that this would mean the loss of around 50 jobs.

Speaking on RTÉ’s Drivetime in October, Limerick Mayor John Moran described the closure as “particularly sad”.

He also said, however, that the experience was too costly to continue operations.