President Michael D Higgins has been presented with the Freedom of Limerick at a ceremony in the city this afternoon.
He is the first recipient of the honour by the new amalgamated Limerick City and County Council.
President Higgins was born in Limerick city in 1941 and spent his early years there, before his family moved to Co Clare.
The council made the honour to celebrate President Higgins's unique contribution to Irish life, and for cherishing and promoting its national culture in all its diversity and richness.
"President Higgins is the sole patron of Limerick City of Culture, and the ceremony today at Limerick Milk Market will showcase our distinctive cultural heritage," said Cathaoirleach Kevin Sheahan.
The Freedom of Limerick is reserved for those who have made an exceptional contribution to the common good, and to those who have made an outstanding contribution to the business, educational or cultural life of Limerick.
President Higgins is declared a Freeman of Limerick in the City of his birth. More on RTE 6.1 News pic.twitter.com/6klkdzb1Tu
— Cathy Halloran (@HalloranCathy) September 29, 2014