- Education and Healthcare
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Ireland has one of the best education systems in the world; not only because of the quality of teaching but also because of the wide range of choices it offers parents and students. Public expenditure on education accounts for around 14 per cent of Government current spending and approximately 5 per cent of GDP.
From nursery schools to universities, the Shannon Region offers a wide choice to suit every age, level and educational orientation to meet the specific needs of families relocating to Shannon. At both primary and secondary level, the region hosts a wide range of schools for pupils between the ages of 4 and 18. Limerick is home to some of Irelands most reputed institutions for the provision of third level education, namely the University of Limerick, Mary Immaculate College, Limerick Institute of Technology and the Limerick School of Art and Design. The programmes on offer range from National Certificate to Doctorate and Post-Doctorate level. The needs of families with children at pre-school age are also well catered for. A guide to studying in Ireland - International Education Board Ireland Publication, 2005 (7,327 kB)
Public expenditure on health accounts for around 24 per cent of Government current spending and approximately 7.92 per cent of GNP. The health services are financed out of central taxation. The health services in Ireland are centrally directed by the Department of Health and Children. At local level, the health services are operated by seven regional health boards and one regional health authority. In the Shannon Region, Public Health Services are excellent with 3 acute hospitals within 50 mile radius as well as access to good private medical facilities. The MidWestern Regional Hospital is situated in Limerick City and is the Main General Hospital referral unit of the Mid-Western Health Board.