The launch of the new Rathbane Municipal 18 hole golf course has been welcomed by golfers and GUI officials in the Munster region.

Dick Barry, Secretary Treasurer of the Munster Branch GUI said: "All major municipal centres in the country already have this type of facility. The club which may be formed within the facility will be affiliated if application is received." He said that demand for golf is so great that property of this type "should long outlive some of the propriety courses now emerging around the country.

The course, launched by the Limerick Corporation at an initial cost of £1.7 million, has been designed and laid out by agronomist and course management consultant James Healy, who has already been involved in Dromoland Castle and Ad are Manor. It will be a 9,920 metres par 70 course with a pay as you play facility.