Mayo journalist receives prestigious Gradam RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta

Mayo journalist Póilín Ní Chiaráin has been honoured with a prestigious award at this year’s Corn Uí Riada competition. The Erris native received the 2025 Gradam RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta on Saturday, November 1, during Oireachtas na Samhna in Belfast.

The  RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta’s Northern Correspondent was given this award as a mark of respect and recognition to individuals or groups for their work on behalf of the Irish language and the Irish-speaking community. 

Gearóid Mac Donncha, Head of RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta, said: 

“When I think of Póilín Ní Chiaráin, I think of an exceptional journalist, a storyteller of deep analysis and reflection, an articulate, accurate, and authoritative broadcaster and writer, and that’s only part of it. She is one of the most experienced and respected journalists working in Northern Ireland.

“She kept the public - especially the Irish-speaking public - informed about what was happening in the North during the Troubles and ever since.

 “This award is being presented to Póilín in recognition of her immense and outstanding service as a journalist, a service she continues to give through radio, television, and the written word. I want to offer my heartfelt congratulations to Póilín. It has always been a great pleasure to work with you and to be in your company.” 

Speaking on the award Póilín Ní Chiaráin said:

“It is a great honour for me to receive this award from Raidió na Gaeltachta. I have the highest respect for the station, and I am proud of the care RnaG has always shown in covering stories about Northern Ireland.

 “This recognition is not for me alone, but also for the community from which I come, in Erris, County Mayo, and for all the people here whose stories I have had the privilege to tell.”