Network Ireland Limerick announce Barbara MacCarthy as President for 2026

‘You Are Not Alone’ at the Heart of Network Ireland Limerick Presidency. Eve Stafford pictured with new Network Ireland Limerick President, Barbara MacCarthy. Photo: Keith Wiseman

Network Ireland Limerick have announced Barbara MacCarthy as President for 2026, taking over the role from Eve Stafford at this year’s Christmas Party

Network Ireland Limerick have announced Barbara MacCarthy as President for 2026, taking over the role from Eve Stafford at this year’s Christmas Party

Network Ireland Limerick announced Barbara MacCarthy as the branch president for 2026 at this year’s Christmas Party, following a successful year in the position for Eve Stafford.

The Network Ireland Limerick Christmas party was held recently in the Strand Hotel, where guests were treated to a delicious meal and performances by talented singers who are part of the group.

advertisement
advertisement

advertisement
advertisement

advertisement
advertisement

advertisement
advertisement

The celebration concluded a successful year under the presidency of Eve Stafford, marked by a strong focus on inclusion, connection and meaningful support for women in business across Limerick.

From the outset of the year, the theme of “You Are Not Alone” shaped the programme and culture of the Limerick branch. Rooted in Eve Stafford’s long-standing affection and respect for older people, the theme aligned naturally with the branch’s chosen charity partner, ALONE, which supports older people experiencing loneliness and social isolation.

Rather than prioritising growth in numbers, the focus was placed on strengthening the member experience and fostering genuine relationships.

“One thing I was determined about was that no one would ever be left standing on their own,” Eve Stafford said in her closing address. “At every event this year, no matter where I turned, the committee made sure people felt included. Seeing that carried through with such kindness was teamwork at its finest.”

Throughout the year, Network Ireland Limerick delivered a diverse and well-attended programme of events, with a strong emphasis on ‘shopping the network’ by utilising speakers solely from Limerick and other Network Ireland branches.

Highlights included an interactive networking event, a public speaking workshop with Shirley Keane, a leadership keynote with Denise O’Brien, a Breaking Barriers event featuring Limerick Rose Leah McMahon, a ‘Purple Friday’ member showcase, and a keynote on ADHD and creativity with Dr Áine O’Dea, alongside netwalking, coffee mornings and a book club.

Community impact was central to the year, with the branch raising over €4,000 for ALONE. At the branch’s Christmas celebration at The Strand Hotel, Martina Kinnane, Service Manager of ALONE’s Midwest Team, addressed members and was presented with a cheque representing the funds raised.

The outgoing soprano president was joined on stage by Network Ireland Limerick members Shirley Keane, Lorraine Galvin and Sarah Anne Bennett to serenade the branch, reflecting the creativity, collaboration and camaraderie that flourished throughout the year.

The evening also marked the introduction of a new branch tradition, as Eve Stafford presented the presidential chains to incoming 2026 President Barbara MacCarthy, symbolising continuity and shared leadership.

Barbara MacCarthy said she is “truly honoured” to take on the role of branch president for 2026 with vice-president Denise O’Brien, and will set the theme for her presidency as ‘Lead the Way’.

Ms MacCarthy said, “I chose this because I truly believe that, as women, we have a responsibility to guide and support those who come after us. We need to step up and be a light that helps others find their way. Every woman in Network Ireland Limerick has faced moments of change and growth, and that’s what makes this network so special. The stories, resilience and ambition within our community are a constant source of inspiration and perfectly reflect the spirit of leading the way together.”

The newly elected Network Ireland Limerick President paid tribute to her predecessor for her dedication to the role, she said, “A sincere thank you to 2025 President Eve Stafford and the committee for leading with such dedication and impact this year. Your work has laid a strong foundation for what’s to come.”

Looking to the future, Barbara said, “I’m also incredibly grateful to my 2026 committee for your support and commitment and to Denise O’Brien for coming onboard as my Vice President. I’m really looking forward to working together to bring meaningful, engaging events to our Limerick members in 2026. Here’s to stepping forward with confidence, lifting others as we go, and leading the way together.”

Reflecting on her presidency, Eve Stafford said the true success of the year lay in seeing members support one another both professionally and personally. As Network Ireland Limerick looks ahead to 2026, the branch continues to demonstrate the strength of a network built on inclusion, participation and women supporting women.

Eve told I Love Limerick, “ I’m absolutely thrilled with our numbers this year. We experienced a huge amount of growth. There were a lot of collaborations with members both on a personal and business level, and it was absolutely amazing to see members flourishing, and I’m really excited for next year.  Barbara McCarthy is going to help us lead the way next year, which is her theme, and I’m really looking forward to it.”