Heritage Hero from Mayo celebrated at national awards
A PROJECT in Mulranny has been feted at the National Heritage Awards.
The efforts of individuals, families and community groups from Mayo to ensure the preservation, protection and promotion of Ireland’s built, natural and cultural heritage were recognised this week at the awards. Hosted by the Heritage Council, the event took place virtually and was presented by RTÉ broadcaster Anne Cassin.
To take account of restrictions on gatherings due to Covid-19, rather than focusing on the organisation of in-person events this year, more than 770 heritage experts and enthusiasts developed projects around this year’s theme of ‘Heritage and Education: Learning from our Heritage’. Comprising online talks and exhibitions, videos, podcasts, slideshow presentations, blogs, websites, social media accounts, as well as small, restricted social gatherings, more than 850 projects were submitted.
The awards were expanded this year to include an award for the best project in each local authority, with Sean Doherty claiming the prize in Mayo.
Sean's project, ‘Mulranny down through the decades’, collected photos and objects from people from their 20s to their 80s, resulting in a free exhibition at Mulranny Community Centre during Heritage Week, as well as on the Mulranny Facebook page where new photos are uploaded every week.
The volume and variety of projects received this year reflects the dedication of individuals and communities to capture, celebrate and share Ireland’s rich and varied heritage.
Commenting, Minister of State for Heritage and Electoral Reform, Malcolm Noonan, said: “The annual National Heritage Awards offer important recognition of the tireless work undertaken by people – not just during National Heritage Week, but year-round – to ensure the story of Ireland’s heritage continues to be told in a meaningful way. I am delighted to see the interest and excitement generated by the Awards among communities across the country, and offer congratulations to all winning and nominated projects.”