Connaught Telegraph nominated for three Local Ireland Media Awards
NOMINATIONS for this year’s Local Ireland Media Awards have been announced following a record number of entries, with The Connaught Telegraph shortlisted for three awards.
The newspaper's general election coverage earned nominations in two award categories - Best Use of Photography and Best Front Page, both for the lead story 'Lawless and Keogh take Mayo politics by storm' after their election to the Dáil. The front page photo was by photographer Alison Laredo.
The Connaught Telegraph has also been shortlisted for Best Innovation for its business supplements series.
More than 700 entries were made for this year’s awards which introduced two new categories for Political Coverage of the Year and Young Journalist of the Year.
The awards are now in their 10th year with its headline sponsors the National Lottery on board for the eighth time. This year’s awards have also received support from Coimisiún na Meán.
President of Local Ireland and managing director of the Southern Star, Seán Mahon, said: “This year's Local Ireland Media Awards have seen record entries again from talented journalist, digital and commercial local newspaper personnel across Ireland, which just goes to show how people in our industry view the prestige associated with winning a category. I don't envy our judges who have a challenging job deciding on the winners due to the high quality of entries.
“I'd also like to thank the National Lottery for their continued support of these awards. Working together is a great fit because both the National Lottery and all our local newspaper members are passionate about supporting local communities.”
The National Lottery has its own special category for Community Journalist of the Year.
Jennifer Crowe, head of corporate affairs for the National Lottery, said: “The stories shortlisted for this year’s National Lottery category are a testament to the strength and spirit of communities across Ireland.
“Through the lens of local journalism, we see the heart of our society, people coming together, overcoming challenges, and making a difference. It’s an honour to help recognise these powerful community stories.”
Media Development Commissioner Rónán Ó’Domnhaill said: “Coimisiún na Meán prioritises the availability of high-quality journalism and we are delighted to support the upcoming Local Ireland Media Awards, to recognise the talent and commitment of local newspapers and their work supporting and informing local communities.
“We believe access to good quality and trustworthy news for all citizens is critical for a well-functioning society and so far, our journalism schemes have funded almost €2.2 million to Local Ireland members across the country. Coimisiún na Meán will continue to support the sector with the announcement of further journalism schemes later this year.”
Winners will be announced at a gala dinner at the Mullingar Park Hotel on September 11. Host for the evening will be RTÉ and Lyric FM presenter Marty Whelan.