The Chairman of the National City of Culture Pat Cox has refused to accept the year long event in Limerick, has been thrown into chaos.

The former MEP and President of the European Parliament was reacting to the news that the City of Culture Artistic Director has resigned after complaining he was sidelined from any involvement with organising the launch party on New Year's Eve.

Internationally renowned art director Karl Wallace has also claimed there was a breakdown of communication between his team and CEO Patricia Ryan prior to his resignation.

Ms Ryan's own appointment has been shrouded in controversy after it emerged she was given the job without it been advertised and that she was a former aide to Pat Cox while he was in Brussels.

From Limerick, David Raleigh reports.