The Mayor of Limerick, John Moran has thrown a dart into the River Shannon symbolising his authority as the Admiral of the Shannon. The ancient maritime tradition dates back to 1765.
Dressed in ceremonial robes, accessorised with a life vest, Mayor Moran boarded a traditional Limerick gandelow and was surrounded by a flotilla of local boats as he performed the “Dropping the Dart” ceremony.
After throwing a silver dart made of Hazelwood into the river, Mayor Moran commented:
"I am glad to keep alive this long established tradition by throwing a dart into the water today. It is important that we make better use and protect the natural ecosystem of our rivers in Limerick. To do that, we need to encourage and support the communities currently using them. I wanted to use today’s traditional event to highlight that priority for me. As I said in my election programme, imagine a full use of our majestic river Shannon in the centre and all along the estuary and a morning swim in a pool on the river or an evening walk along the riverbank looking at a fleet of sailing boats heading off into the sunset."
The Mayor also extended his gratitude to all involved in organising the event and for the presence of the Civil Defence Search and Rescue Team.
Historical Context
In 1609, King James I granted a charter that bestowed “exclusive admiralty jurisdiction” over a portion of the River Shannon extending three miles northeast of the city to the sea mouth, including all associated creeks and banks.
The title of Admiral of the Shannon was not merely ceremonial; it entailed practical responsibilities. The Mayor oversaw safe passage of ships, facilitating trade, and protected the city’s interests.