Munster is the southernmost province of Ireland, comprising the counties of Clare, Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Tipperary and Waterford. Population (Census 2002): 1,101,266.

Its name is derived from the Celtic goddess, Muma. It was once divided into three kingdoms, Ormond (east), Desmond (south) and Thomond (north), but these names exist only indirectly today (eg Thomond College).