Writing competition launched in honour of University of Limerick student

ENTRIES are now open for a competition established by the University of Limerick (UL) journalism department in memory of Joe Drennan, a final year student who was killed in a hit and run incident in Limerick last year.

The Joe Drennan Memorial Competition for Inclusive Journalism, in association with The Irish Times, aims to recognise journalism that enhances understanding of marginalised communities.

A native of Mountrath, Co Laois, Joe was an exceptionally talented student journalist who died just two weeks after his 21st birthday. 

Speaking on the first anniversary of his death, Dr Kathryn Hayes, course director, BA in Journalism and Digital Communication, said Joe was an exceptionally talented student journalist whose name will never be forgotten at the University of Limerick. 

“Joe’s passion to pursue a journalism career that was dedicated to inclusivity is reflected in the stories he had published and those he had planned to write. I am delighted that this award has been established to honour Joe's legacy, and in particular his commitment to journalism work that spoke for the often-unheard voices.”

The winning article will be published in The Irish Times.  Entrants are required to produce a 1,000 – 1500-word article, suitable for multi-media use. 

The winning article will be selected based on impact, originality, news gathering and research, depth of investigation, and quality of writing.

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Speaking about the adjudication process Mark Hennessy, Ireland and Britain editor of The Irish Times said:

“What we are looking for in this competition is stories that break new ground on a subject that has not previously been the focus of public attention or has been underreported in the media.

“This competition will honour Joe Drennan's spirit of curiosity and empathy and I’m sure the entries will challenge stereotypes, and foster a deeper understanding towards marginalised communities, ensuring that their voices will be heard in the Irish Times.”

Speaking about the competition, Joe’s mother Marguerite said the Drennan family is extremely proud to know her son will continue to provide inspiration to others.

“We are so grateful to University of Limerick for honouring Joe in this way. The writing competition is a wonderful tribute to his memory, he would have been so thrilled. We are so very proud of Joe and what he accomplished in his life; he loved writing and UL. It makes us so proud to know that he will continue to be an inspiration for others.”

The winner of the competition, which is open to all UL students, will also receive a perpetual trophy presented by members of the Drennan family.

The closing date for entries is December 13, 2024.

Entries can be emailed to: kathryn.hayes@ul.ie