President Connolly presented the prestigious award at a celebration event this week in Trinity’s Regent House. The O’Shaughnessy Award was established in 1997 by the Centre for Irish Studies in the University of St Thomas in Minnesota to recognise outstanding contributions to Irish poetry.  

In her address, President Connolly said, “Poetry is all the more important at a time when the language of the powerful has become so misused and debased to feed the narrative of ‘might is right’.”

Reflecting on these words, Linda referenced a quote from former US Poet Laureate Ada Limón, who said: “Would it be an exaggeration to say that poetry saves lives? Maybe, maybe not. During my tenure as the Poet Laureate, I’ve come to realise that not only are people hungry for poetry, language, and connection, but that for so many people around the world, it serves as a much-needed lifeline already.” 

Gallery of three photos with photos from the OShaughnessy Awards, including photos of both Linda and President Connolly during their speeches, and a photo of President Connolly presenting the glass Award to Enda Wyley.
 
“Lifelines are needed in the world today,” Linda added, ‘and there is something quite beautiful about poetry playing this role.” 

The O’Shaughnessy Awards were organised by Prof. David Gardiner, Director of the Centre for Irish Studies at University of St Thomas.

President Catherine Connolly’s speech is available to read on the President of Ireland website.