# The Irish Times Secures Eight Wins at Irish Journalism Awards

The newspaper received recognition for investigative reporting, digital innovation, and cultural commentary in Dublin.

- **Source:** [The Irish Times – News](https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland)
- **Published:** 2026-11-12
- **Topic:** [culture](https://brifing.si/c/culture)
- **Original article:** <https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2026/11/12/the-irish-times-wins-in-eight-categories-at-irish-journalism-awards/>
- **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/982dfc3c-7bcd-4748-9950-d053375230c1

## Multiple Wins for Publication

The Irish Times secured eight distinct prizes at the annual Irish Journalism Awards held in Dublin. The accolades spanned various disciplines including investigative reporting, arts criticism, and digital innovation. This performance highlights the newspaper's broad editorial reach and its commitment to maintaining high standards across both print and digital platforms.

## Recognizing Investigative Excellence

Investigative reporter Conor Gallagher received praise for his detailed examination of how alumina from a Limerick refinery reaches Russia’s weapons supply chain. This rigorous work exemplifies the paper's focus on high-value investigations. Such reporting underscores the critical role of independent journalism in tracking complex international supply chains and corporate accountability.

## Columnist and Feature Success

Fintan O’Toole was named Columnist of the Year for his critical analysis of government policy regarding private medicine in public hospitals. Meanwhile, London Correspondent Mark Paul earned the Features Journalist of the Year title. His winning work included a poignant interview with a 100-year-old man, showcasing diverse storytelling capabilities.

## Digital and Cultural Impact

The Ticket was awarded Magazine of the Year, while the paper’s immersive storytelling team won in the Digital Innovation category. These awards reflect a strategic shift toward multimedia engagement. By integrating digital creativity with traditional journalism, the publication continues to reach audiences through varied formats, including podcasts and interactive web features.

## Sports Journalism Achievements

Malachy Clerkin retained his title as Broadsheet Sports Journalist of the Year. His award-winning portfolio featured exclusive interviews, including one with boxer Kellie Harrington regarding her return from retirement and another with runner Ciara Mageean about her cancer diagnosis. These stories demonstrate the human element often found in top-tier sports reporting.

## Industry Context and Challenges

Editor Ruadhán Mac Cormaic noted that these awards affirm the publication's position despite significant commercial and legal pressures facing news publishers today. The industry continues to navigate a difficult landscape while striving to hold powerful entities accountable. This recognition serves as a reminder of the essential public good provided by journalism.

## Broader Industry Perspectives

Ann Marie Lenihan, CEO of NewsBrands Ireland, emphasized that a strong, independent news industry is vital for a healthy democracy. She highlighted that producing original journalism requires substantial long-term investment and skilled personnel. The awards ceremony served to celebrate the dedication and ambition required to sustain such important public interest work.

## Global Press Freedom Concerns

Press Ombudsman Susan McKay addressed the event by highlighting the extreme dangers journalists face in warzones. She specifically criticized the high death toll among Palestinian journalists, underscoring the global risks inherent in reporting from centers of human suffering. This context frames the awards as a celebration of both talent and resilience.

## Sources covering this story

- https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2026/11/12/the-irish-times-wins-in-eight-categories-at-irish-journalism-awards/ — 

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_Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._
