Entries for journalism awards up 50%

The number of entries to NewsBrands Ireland Journalism Awards has jumped 50% since the competition was last held three years ago.

A total of 1,200 entries has been submitted in what organizers are hailing as “the biggest showcase of original Irish journalism ever held”.

“Now that the awards are back, we are delighted not just by the volume of entries but by the outstanding quality of work submitted,” said Vincent Crowley, chairman NewsBrands.

“As a snapshot of how our industry is faring, I think a total of 1,200 entries shows the dedication and diversity that Irish journalism represents today.”

Winners of the 2016 awards, sponsored by the National Lottery, will be announced in November.

The closing date for entries has passed and the 1,200 submissions are being assessed by the 32-strong judging panel — comprising national journalists and editors — under the chairmanship of Professor John Horgan, former Press Ombudsman of Ireland.

The awards ceremony will take place in Dublin’s Mansion House on Thursday, November 3 where prizes will be awarded in 25 categories including news, foreign, business, politics and crime.

Journalist of the Year will also be announced.

Dermot Griffin, chief Executive of Premier Lotteries Ireland, operator of the National Lottery, said they were delighted to be supporting the 2016 awards.

“It is absolutely fitting that we recognise the men and women who work around the clock to deliver the highest quality journalism,” Mr Griffin said.