2023 Business Journalism Awards: Celebrating Excellence in Financial Reporting
The Business Journalism Awards will take place on December 9 in Dublin. These awards recognize the important role of business journalists in helping the public understand financial issues.
The shortlist includes journalists from RTÉ, the Business Post, The Irish Times, Journal Media, The Sunday Times, and The Currency. Bank of Ireland sponsors these awards, and an independent jury will choose the winners. Nóirín O’Sullivan, the former Garda commissioner, chairs this year’s judging panel.
Prizes will be given in seven categories, such as Business News Story of the Year, Upcoming Journalist of the Year, and Business Interview of the Year.
This year, Mediahuis Ireland journalists have notable nominations. Charlie Weston from the Irish Independent reported on how many mortgage holders cannot seek help after their loans were sold to investors. The Irish Independent news team investigated the costs of GP care. The Indo Daily podcast covered the University of Limerick’s overspending on student accommodation. Mark Tighe interviewed former Abbey Theatre directors Graham McLaren and Neil Murray for the Sunday Independent.
What role does business journalism play in shaping public perception of economic issues?
Interview with Damien Garvey: The Importance of Business Journalism
December 2, 2023, Dublin – As the Business Journalism Awards approach, we sat down with Damien Garvey from Bank of Ireland, the main sponsor of this prestigious event. With the awards set to take place on December 9 in Dublin, Garvey shared his insights on the critical role of business journalism in today’s society.
Q: What motivated Bank of Ireland to sponsor the Business Journalism Awards?
Damien Garvey: At Bank of Ireland, we believe that robust and responsible journalism is fundamental to a healthy business environment. The Business Journalism Awards celebrate the dedication and expertise of journalists who navigate complex financial landscapes, shedding light on issues that matter to the public. By supporting these awards, we aim to encourage excellence in reporting that informs and empowers the community.
Q: Why do you think business journalism is vital in today’s society?
DG: Business journalism plays a pivotal role in demystifying financial issues for the public. In an age where economic trends affect our everyday lives—be it through mortgage rates, healthcare costs, or investment opportunities—journalists provide essential insights that help readers make informed decisions. They serve as intermediaries, translating complex financial jargon into accessible information, thereby fostering transparency and accountability.
Q: What can attendees expect at this year’s awards ceremony?
DG: We’re excited to recognize and celebrate the outstanding contributions in business journalism across various categories, such as Business News Story of the Year and Upcoming Journalist of the Year. This year, the panel is chaired by Nóirín O’Sullivan, former Garda commissioner, ensuring a fair and thorough evaluation process. Attendees can anticipate a night of inspiration, with compelling stories from talented journalists who tackle pressing economic issues head-on.
Q: Looking at the shortlist, what are some standout entries for you?
DG: The nominations this year cover a broad spectrum of pressing topics, from mortgage challenges faced by homeowners to investigations into GP care costs and student accommodation overspending. Charlie Weston’s piece on mortgage holders stands out for its depth and relevance, while the Indo Daily podcast’s expose on overspending at the University of Limerick showcases investigative rigor. These stories reflect the hard-hitting journalism we need in order to address societal issues.
Q: How do you see the future of business journalism in Ireland?
DG: I’m optimistic about the future of business journalism in Ireland. As we navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing economic landscape, the demand for accurate, insightful reporting will only increase. Educational institutions like UCD Smurfit School are furthering this mission by fostering a vibrant learning environment, preparing the next generation of journalists to meet these challenges head-on.
Q: Any final thoughts as we approach the awards?
DG: I look forward to the awards as a celebration of journalistic excellence. It’s important that we continue to support and acknowledge the tireless work of business journalists who play a crucial role in our society. Their work not only informs but also drives meaningful conversations around economic issues that affect us all.
As we anticipate the Business Journalism Awards on December 9, it’s clear that the contributions of business journalists are more vital than ever, shaping the narrative around financial affairs in Ireland.
Other shortlisted works cover the property firm Ires Reit, Paddy Cosgrave’s Web Summit, and the Irish startup scene.
Damien Garvey from Bank of Ireland emphasized the importance of journalism in a healthy business environment. He looks forward to celebrating excellence in business journalism through these awards.
Professor Federica Pazzaglia from UCD Smurfit School highlighted the commitment to a vibrant learning environment that benefits business and society.