Irish Writers Centre launch new Patron Programme on milestone anniversary
The Irish Writers Centre has announced its new Patrons Programme on its milestone 35th anniversary.
The leading development and resource organisation for writers in Ireland launched the initiative to support emerging writers.
The scheme is also to ensure the continued growth of Irish literature at home and abroad.
Billy Glennon pictured at the Irish Writers Centre in Dublin for the launch of its new Patrons Programme. Pic: Andres Povdea.
It comes amid a period of growth and renewal following the appointment of Mags McLoughlin in late 2024 as CEO.
A comprehensive two-year growth strategy has seen the organisation expand its national footprint and deepen its impact across Ireland.
Among the key developments include the Regional Literary Roadshow, a revived Debut Novel Competition and the continued expansion of the National Mentoring Programme.
Catherine Martin pictured at the Irish Writers Centre in Dublin. Pic: Andres Poveda
The introduction of new international collaborations such as the Words, in Other Places festival in partnership with the European Parliament Liaison Office has also been extremely beneficial.
The Irish Writers Centre supports more than 2,500 annually, with thousands more engaging in events, workshops and programmes provided by them nationwide.
The growth comes at a time of increased pressure for the sector, with recent analysis highlighting rising costs and barriers to access among the problem areas.
Mags McLoughlin, CEO, Irish Writers Centre. Pic: Andres Poveda
Mags McLoughlin called on more investment for literature to enable writers to ‘continue to develop their craft.’
Ms McLoughlin said: ‘The reality is Irish writers are major contributors to culture Ireland and brand Ireland. Yet that’s not reflected in the funding.’
The latest initiative, The Patrons Programme invites individuals, corporates and philanthropists to play a meaningful role in the shaping of the future of Irish literature.
Writer Joseph O’Connor in conversation with Irish Writers Centre Chair, Breda Brown. Pic: Andres Poveda
With a suggested contribution of €5,000, patrons will support the expansion of creative writing and mentoring programmes; new masterclasses and events; greater opportunities for writers to share and perform their work; increased bursaries and residences as well as the promotion of Irish writers nationally and internationally.
Author Marian Keyes, who is an ambassador at the Irish Writers Centre said the support of Irish writers was ‘very important.’
The Rachel’s Holiday writer said: ‘Writing is a lifelong commitment and writers need all the encouragement they can get.
Helen Connelay, Ciara Broderick and Ciara Garvan. Pic: Andres Poveda
‘We have so much talent in this country, but we need to build confidence and convince writers that their stories are worth telling.’
She added that she was honoured to be the first patron to help support ‘fantastic new voices.’
Other inaugural patrons include writer Kathy Gilfillan, The Rooney Prize for Irish Literature, KPMG and Staycity.
Pic: Andres Poveda
Chief People Officer at Staycity, Carmel Duffy, said they were ‘honoured’ to become a Patron.
Ms Duffy said: ‘As an Irish company, we take great pride in our shared reputation as a nation of storytellers.
‘From seanchaí to screenwriters and everything in between, we are pleased to support this nurturing platform for emerging writers to ensure even more stories are continuously brought to life.’
The Irish Writers Centre is now calling on additional support from across the business, philanthropy and cultural sectors to join their growing community.
