Journalism competition will be held in memory of Joe Drennan

New award is named in honour of much-loved UL student who died in a road traffic accident last year

The late Joe Drennan's parents, Tim and Marguerite Drennan, with a special memorial edition of the 'Limerick Voice'. The grieving parents say the new award is a fitting way to remember their son. Picture: Alan Place

An aspiring journalist who died in a road traffic incident in Limerick is being celebrated with a new competition being launched in his memory.

Joe Drennan from Mountrath, Co Laois died in October 2023 and the new memorial competition will recognise journalism that contributes to the understanding of marginalised communities.

Mr Drennan had been editor in chief of UL student newspaper and website, Limerick Voice, a few weeks earlier and had "urged reporters to find a voice that they themselves had not heard before".

UL associate professor Kathryn Hayes said the competition was designed to honour Mr Drennan’s “pioneering spirit” and the impact he made during his time in UL.

“We believe this competition will help contribute to a more inclusive and diverse media landscape and is a fitting tribute to Joe,” she said.

Mr Drennan’s mother Marguerite said the competition is a “fitting way” to remember her son’s passion for journalism and inclusivity in his writing.

The late Joe Drennan's parents, Tim and Marguerite Drennan (centre), with  'Limerick Voice' managing editor Molly Cantwell and digital editor Joe Costigan, at the launch of the new award. Picture: Alan Place

The winning article will be published in The Irish Times.

Mark Hennessy, Ireland and Britain Editor of The Irish Times said: "As journalists, it's not only our duty to report the news, but to illuminate the stories often overlooked, amplify the voices of the marginalised and strive for a more inclusive narrative.

“The Joe Drennan Memorial Competition serves not only as a tribute to the life of a young journalist whose passion for social justice was cut short, but also as a beacon for more inclusive journalism.

The competition will run annually commencing from the 2024/25 academic year and the winner will receive a perpetual trophy presented by the Drennan family.

The deadline for submissions is November 30, 2024.