Ailbhe Conneely is Irish Tatler’s media winner this year, having made a considerable impact on social affairs journalism in this country. By widening the scope and breadth of her role with RTÉ she has ensured that more and more people who feel isolated or brushed aside in Irish society are given a voice. Significantly, in the last twelve months, she has been instrumental in showing the impact of the cost-of-living crisis on the lives of people and families across Ireland. Conneely is trusted by the most vulnerable of groups, many of whom are wary of the media, but feel comfortable telling their story to her, and for that alone, she is Irish Tatler’s Media winner. Whether it is survivors of Mother and Baby Homes, refugees fleeing for their lives to the safety of communities here or women living in constant danger of violence and exploitation – all have felt comfort in telling their experiences to her and allowing her to share with listeners and viewers.
