Search begins for People of the Year

The annual search for individuals and groups who have heartened and inspired the nation is under way, as nominations open for the 2015 People of the Year Awards.

Anyone can be nominated — from a local hero to an international icon — and anyone can submit a nomination once they explain why they believe their nominee deserves the accolade.

Last year’s winners included equality activist, Rory O’Neill, otherwise known as Panti Bliss; garda whistleblowers, Maurice McCabe and John Wilson; and Cork woman Louise O’Keeffe, who fought a 15-year legal battle to force the State to take responsibility for paedophile teachers.