Gallery: The Irish Writers Centre Launches Patrons Programme

On a glorious evening, Thursday, April 23, we launched the Irish Writers Centre Patrons Programme, a new initiative to support our emerging writers and next generation of Irish storytellers.

Designed to bring together corporate and private supporters who want to play a direct role in developing our writers, the Patrons Programme will help expand our creative writing and mentoring programmes, increase the number of masterclasses and events nationwide and provide additional bursaries and residencies. The initiative will also help broaden public engagement opportunities for writers and help us promote our work nationally and internationally.

Speaking at the launch, our special guest, author and Irish Writers Centre ambassador, Joseph O’Connor said Ireland’s reputation for literature and storytelling remains one of its strongest cultural assets. “All over the world, Ireland is known for great literature, poetry and storytelling. More than ever, in these times we need powerful and beautiful words that bring us together.”

Joseph O’Connor was joined on stage by newly signed author, Ciara Broderick, a winner of our 2025 International Debut Novel Competition and Patrick Holloway, author of The Language of Remembering and a graduate of our Evolution Programme, both with international publishing deals.

Mags McLoughlin, Irish Writers Centre CEO, commented: “The reality is Irish writers are major contributors to culture Ireland and brand Ireland. Yet that’s not reflected in the funding. Literature needs more investment so our writers can continue to develop their craft, seek out more publishing and performance opportunities and bring in new readers.”

We were delighted to welcome early supporters including StayCity, KPMG, The Rooney Prize for Irish Literature, Kathy Gilfillan and Marian Keyes all of whom contributed €5,000 to become a Patron. According to Marian Keyes, best-selling author and another Irish Writers Centre ambassador: “Supporting Ireland’s writers is very important to me, especially up-and-coming writers. Writing is a lifelong commitment, and writers need all the encouragement they can get.”

Will you help us write the next chapter of the Irish Writers Centre? If you would like to contribute to our Patrons Programme or become a Friend of Irish Writers Centre please follow the link. All levels of gifts/donations gratefully received.

Have a look at some of the fantastic photos from Thursday’s event, taken by photographer Andres Poveda in the gallery below.